The Belmont University Volleyball team (5-9, 0-2 MVC) faced a tough battle against Illinois State (6-9, 1-1 MVC), losing in a five-set match on Saturday. The set scores were 25-19, 23-25, 20-25, 25-21, and 8-15.
Match Overview
The match began with both teams trading points in the first set. The Bruins gained an advantage with three consecutive kills, taking a 17-13 lead. Bella Mathis contributed an ace, pushing Belmont ahead to 22-17. The Bruins secured the first set with a score of 25-19.
In the second set, Belmont continued its momentum and built a six-point lead. A kill by Alivia Keegan kept the Bruins in front at 19-15. However, Illinois State rallied late in the set to win it 25-23.
Set three remained close early on. Kills from Brenna Kauffeld and Keegan tied the score at 15-15. The Redbird offense then surged, allowing Illinois State to finish the set with a 25-20 victory.
Illinois State started the fourth set strong, but the Bruins fought back to tie the score at 12-12. Lucy Kay’s kill helped Belmont reclaim the lead at 14-12. The Bruins then went on a 4-0 run, closing the set 25-21 and forcing a decisive fifth set.
In the final set, Illinois State jumped to an early lead. A kill from Brooke Gilleland brought Belmont within three points at 6-9. However, the Redbirds maintained their advantage and clinched the match with a 15-8 win in the fifth set.
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