Inconsistent play, magnified by a key injury, hindered the Hays Rebel volleyball team in a four set district loss to the Bowie Bulldogs Tuesday at Bales Gym.

Hays (16-13, 1-1 in district play) was forced to play the match without junior setter Ryann Torres, who was held out due to an injury. Her absence showed early in the match when Bowie took control of the first set due to several unforced Rebel errors.

Bowie sped ahead to a 14-9 lead and claimed the first set 25-18.

The Bulldogs stayed hot in t...