Crunch time came early for the Phoenix volleyball team on Thursday night.

Trailing late in the first set of the Skyline Conference opener at Mazama, the Pirates responded with a massive rally, leading to a sweep of the host Vikings. PHS brought home a 25-22, 25-15, 25-21 victory to grab an early share of the conference lead.

Kassidy Calhoun led the rally in the opening set, running of nine straight serving points. The Pirates trailed 21-12 in the set before charging back. The momentum continued through the next two sets. Sharp setting from Sophia Tringolo (26 assists) opened the door for hitters Calhoun and Katelyn Hanson (eight kills each) while Avery Reneau provided a steady presence at the net as a blocker. Tringolo finished with five serving aces while Calhoun added four and Hanson two.

The Pirates are 5-5 overall, equalling last season's victory total. PHS will take part in the Rogue Valley Classic on Saturday before returning home to host Klamath Union on Tuesday in an OSAA endowment match.