EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.— The Cougars wrapped up opening weekend of Ohio Valley Conference play by falling to Murray State 25-23, 25-18, 27-25.

"We had a lot of fire today," comment Head Volleyball Coach Kendall Paulus. "It was great to see us compete and serve tough."

Leading the way for the Cougars were Annie Ellis and Hope Everett who both ended the day with nine kills. Also for the team, Rachel McDonald added 7 kills to the team's 39 on the day.

Sarah Armendariz notched her second double-double of the season by totaling 13 assists and 10 digs.

The Cougars were defensively effective with their block again today by totaling seven blocks. Ellis led the way in blocking with five, while Everett added three.

The team now moves to 5-9 on the season and are 0-2 in OVC play. 

The Cougars will continue conference play at home on Wednesday when they host Eastern Illinois at 6 p.m.