EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE volleyball opened Ohio Valley Conference play at home Friday night, battling UT Martin through three intense sets. The Cougars ultimately fell to the Skyhawks 20-25, 26-28, and 30-32.
The Cougars and Skyhawks traded momentum throughout the opening set, with SIUE putting together two rallies of three or more points, while UT Martin responded with four of their own to help claim the set.
SIUE responded with a strong start to the second set, taking a 10-4 advantage behind a five-point run. The Cougars then continued to battle as the set unfolded, taking the match into extra points before UT Martin claimed the 28-26 lead.
The third set provided the most intense action of the season, as the teams traded points deep into extra points before the Skyhawks closed out the match with a 32-30 decision.
Despite the result, the Cougars kept each set well within reach, with the match featuring 28 ties and 13 lead changes and dropping the final two sets by a combined four points.
The Cougars will have a chance to respond when they face UT Martin once more Saturday afternoon. First serve is set for 3 p.m.
