After a third-round road victory over Camden, the Gilbert High School volleyball team was a victory away from its first state title match in three years.

The host team Lady Iron Horses of Phillip Simmons stood in the way and, ultimately, ended the Lady Indians’ Class 3A Lower State playoff run in Charleston.

Phillip Simmons (38-4-2) won the first set 25-20, with Gilbert responding strong with a 25-15 victory in set two. The Lady Iron Horses regained the lead with a 25-20 win in set three and jumped out to a 19-10 advantage in the fourth set.

The Lady Indians battled back to score 10 of the next 12 points to get within 22-20. Phillip Simmons would hold off Gilbert to finish the fourth set 25-21 and claim the Lower State title.

Gilbert finished the season 19-11-1, while the Lady Iron Horses  will face Wren in the  state championship match Nov. 3 at Dreher High School. 

Two more Chronicle Country teams will compete for a berth in the Class 5A and 2A championship matches Nov. 5. 

Nov. 1 Volleyball Schedule

Gray Collegiate at Liberty 6 p.m.

Lexington at Wando 6 p.m.