Box Score HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – SIUE opened to a strong start Friday at the Northern Kentucky Volleyball Invitational but took a four-set loss to Eastern Michigan.
The Cougars fell 20-25, 25-18, 25-23, 25-11. SIUE dropped to 2-3 on the season and play two matches to close out the tournament Saturday. The Cougars meet host Northern Kentucky at 11:30 a.m. CT followed by Samford at 6 p.m. CT.
"We have a young squad with some experience in a couple of places," said SIUE Head Coach Leah Johnson. "There are going to be some high hills and low valleys along the way. As we repeat the positive things along the way, we're going to be a very good volleyball team."
Freshman Ashley Witt led the SIUE offense with nine kills. SIUE's defense outblocked the Eagles 7-5 powered by five blocks from freshman Carley Ramich and three from sophomore setter Mallory Mangun.
Witt also claimed four of SIUE's nine service aces. The Cougars continue to serve well with 1.62 service aces per set after five matches.
"That side our game has been solid," Johnson added.
SIUE looked strong in set one with kills from Kristen Torre and Taylor Held at the end of the set.
"It was one of our goals to fast to break the habit we set last weekend," said Johnson. "We were playing sound volleyball. Eastern Michigan responded well and became more aggressive."
The Eagles, 3-1, improved their offensive output as the match continued. Stacey Perinar led all hitters with 15 kills, including seven in the third set.
