EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE closed out its own Cougar Classic with a victory Saturday night defeating Western Illinois in four sets 25-15, 25-18, 22-25, 25-18.

Earlier in the day, SIUE, now 1-2 overall, dropped a four-set decision to Santa Clara 25-22, 22-25, 25-17, 25-10.

"I think we showed a bit of hunger. To finish each match to this point without a win, it makes us hungry," said SIUE Head Coach Leah Johnson.

The Cougars played "clean, good volleyball" in the first two sets against Western Illinois, according to Johnson. SIUE would hit a season-best .258 overall against the Leathernecks.

"We moved the ball around really well tonight," said Johnson. "We were too outside dependent the first two matches."

Brooke Smith led the Cougars with a double-double of 16 kills and 17 digs. Emma Anderson also had a double-double with 15 kills and 11 digs. Kelsey Augustine patrolled the middle with 13 kills and a team-best six blocks.

Johnson said Chelsea Colclasure's play on defense helped the Cougars feel in sync Saturday. She totaled 22 of her team-high 28 digs in the first two sets. Setter Sammi Minton finished with 49 assists and three kills.

"It makes a difference for our energy level when we are in sync. Everybody feels connected at that point," said Johnson.

SIUE was held to 40 kills in the Santa Clara match. Smith and Augustine led SIUE with eight kills each.

Next up for SIUE is the Jessica Barkman Memorial Classic in Terre Haute, Ind., next Saturday and Sunday. As it goes, there will be a rematch to start the tournament. SIUE plays Western Illinois to start the tournament and also will face host Indiana State and Loyola (Ill.).

"It's a good natural rivalry," said Johnson of Western Illinois. "I really respect their staff and athletes. They competed hard too."