Evangels Edge the Drovers in Conference Opener

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Wednesday night, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (6-3, 0-1 SAC) had their six-match win streak snapped with a tough three-set loss against rival Mid-America Christian University (6-2, 1-0 SAC) Despite losing in three sets, the match was incredibly tightly contested, which MACU edging USAO by a total of nine points.

The Evangels opened the match with a hard fought 25-23 win in the opening set, followed by a 25-20 win in the second set. USAO got off to a great start in the third set and led by as many as seven, but the Evangels stormed back and narrowly edged the Drovers 31-29 in the final frame. 

As a team, the Drover offense produced a .155 attack percentage with 39 kills, while the Evangels recorded a .145 attack percentage and 36 kills. USAO's setters dished out a total of 39 assists, meanwhile the defense produced 45 digs and 16.0 total blocks. MACU produced 36 assists, 52 digs, and 9.0 total blocks. Additionally, USAO recorded only four service aces, while committing 15 service errors, in comparison to MACU's seven aces and nine errors. 

The USAO offense was led by Victoria Wright's impressive performance, tallying 11 kills on a .364 attack percentage. Samantha Perez contributed nine kills and seven digs. Jaliyah Cox finished with seven kills on a .462 attack percentage, along with three block assists. Chloe Conover added five kills, followed by Giselle Calderon with four. 

Bailey Makahununiu distributed 20 assists, while Ytzel Garcia dished out 17 helpers. 

Brynlee Birney anchored USAO's defense and led all players with 19 digs. Alacia Ledoux finished with 10 digs.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return to Brisco McPherson Court on Friday, Sept. 5 as they host Langston University. First serve is scheduled for 6:00 PM CT inside Drover Fieldhouse.

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