BISMARCK — After dropping two sets in a row, Langdon Area/Munich was in uncharted territory.

The Cardinals undoubtedly have a target on their backs. They’re in the state volleyball tournament for the 24th time in 37 years — by far the most appearances of any Class B team. They’re the defending state champions and No. 1 seed. Entering Thursday, they hadn’t lost a set since Oct. 11.

After taking a 2-0 match lead over No. 8-seeded Central McLean, LA/M dropped two straight sets. It ended the Cardinals’ 29-set winning streak — and nearly ended their season.

But LA/M (37-5) survived a five-set barnburner to take down the Cougars (22-13) in the state quarterfinals Thursday at the Bismarck Event Center. Set scores were 25-20, 25-10, 22-25, 24-26, 15-6.

After the match, Cardinals head coach Ric

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