[Volleyball] Volleyball falls to Bulldogs and Patriots in tri-match

BARBOURVILLE, Ky. – Montreat College volleyball dropped an Appalachian Athletic Conference matchup to Union College 3-0 (25-14, 25-12, 25-22) before falling 3-1 to the University of the Cumberlands (25-15, 28-30, 25-17, 25-23) in a tri-match host by the Bulldogs on Saturday.

Montreat got out to a 2-0 lead in the first set against Union, but the rest of the set was mostly one-sided as the Bulldogs used a 19-8 span to take a 23-12 lead and secure the first set. Union used big runs in the second and third sets to help them record the sweep as the Bulldogs went on a 10-0 stretch in the second frame and an 8-0 run to overcome their 21-16 deficit in the final set.

Hayley Horton led the Cavs in the first match with nine kills, Vivica Nogueira with nine digs, and Katie James with 23 assists.

The Cavs found themselves in a quick deficit against the Patriots but answered by tying things up at three. However, Cumberlands then went on a 7-1 run to take a 10-4 lead. The Cavs would come as close as three points in the set, but couldn't catch back up. The second set was a battle as Montreat led 24-20 late in the frame, but the Patriots used a quick surge to go up 25-24. It took 30 points, but the Cavs fought back to take the set and tie the match up 1-1.

After dropping the third set, Montreat kept the fourth set close, staying within one point of the Patriots for much of the set, but could never take over the lead as Cumberlands held on for the 3-1 win.

Ila Elstein posted a double-double with a team-high 12 kills and 10 digs. Vivica Nogueira collected 16 digs and Amika James had 15. Katie James recorded 35 assists.

Up Next: The Cavs close out a road stint at Bryan College on Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 6:30 p.m. ET.