POCATELLO — Given the stakes, it was a stunningly easy match for Century volleyball Thursday night, as the Diamondbacks controlled Wood River the whole way for a three-set sweep, 25-21, 25-8, 25-19, to win the 4A District 4-5 championship in front of their home crowd.

Century, the defending state champion, will play Boise, the runner-up from District 3, in the first round of the state tournament, which begins Nov. 1 at Coeur d’Alene High School.

“It’s always validating,” Century coach Breanne Robinson said. “It’s something we’ve worked hard on all season, so it’s nice to see your hard work pay off. It’s always been a goal and sort of a stepping stone to get us to the next level.”

PHOTOS: Century-Wood River volleyball

Except for a few points here and there early in sets, Century never trailed against Wood River on Thursday, holding off rallies from the Wolverines in the first and, especially, the third set.

Wood River, hanging around through the middle of the third set, put together a mini-run to shrink Century’s lead to 18-16, but the Diamondbacks responded with a kill and went on a 7-3 run to close out the match.

“I was proud of the way we came and attacked,” Robinson said. “Our hitters were relentless. They never got scared, and they went and hit fearlessly.”

Century’s big advantage came from its blocking, led by Ashley Harris in the middle. Wood River had a difficult time hitting through Century’s block to consistently score points, forcing the Wolverines to string together runs in other ways — something that they struggled with.

Robinson also lauded her team’s serving. Preslie Merrill and Bryndel Smith had two aces apiece to lead the Diamondbacks, who had eight aces as a team.

“There were times when we served really, really well,” Robinson said. “I would like to see more of that, be more consistent that way. In that second set, we were serving tough, and I think it’s tough for teams to keep up with you if they’re never in system.”

Abby Christensen had 14 kills to lead Century’s attack. Merrill had a double-double with 10 kills, second on the team, and 10 digs. Julia McNulty led the Diamondbacks with 14 digs.

Century’s next match will be in the state tournament as the Diamondbacks look to go back-to-back.

“We’re pretty experienced,” Robinson said. “Pretty much all of my starters were there last year, but it’s a different environment, it’s a different feel. I think that we’re going to be ready for next week.”

Wood River at Century volleyball