Port Neches-Groves nearly overcame a tough first set against Richmond Foster, but a narrow setback did not do the Rock-A-Noos any favors in a three-set defeat Friday night at Channelview High School.

Foster advanced to the UIL 5A Region III quarterfinal round with a 25-18, 27-25, 25-18 win, ending PNG’s season at 33-7, its most victories in six years.

“I really believe if we had won the second match, we would have had the momentum to go win the match,” PNG coach Barbara Comeaux said. “But to get to the point where we did in the season, I’m proud of the kids.”

Comeaux said PNG didn’t start Friday’s match with the same intensity as it did in a bi-district win over Crosby, adding that Foster (34-8) was “comparable” to Crosby.

“It’s not that they gave up, but we didn’t play with the same intensity,” Comeaux said. “You’re always disappointed when you don’t win your last game.”

Statistics from the match were not available. The Falcons, Comeaux said, found ways to keep the Noos from making big plays.

Foster will play Santa Fe in the area round.

— I.C. Murrell