AFTON — After finishing runner-up at the Pride of Iowa Conference Volleyball Championships each of the past three years, the East Union Eagles finally broke through and won the championship, defeating rival Bedford 25-13, 25-20, 25-17 here Tuesday night.

Bedford came into the contest ranked No. 10 in Class 1A, while the Eagles were ranked No. 11. Bedford had already claimed a 25-23, 25-23, 25-27, 25-21 victory over East Union back on Sept. 18.

East Union defeated Martensdale-St. Marys 25-20, 28-26, 25-8 in the semifinal round Tuesday to advance to the finals. Bedford won a hard-fought match against Interstate 35, winning 17-25, 25-21, 25-11, 20-25, 15-10.