Volleyball team stung by Hornets in four sets
Eagles lose their ninth match in a row and 19th straight conference match overall
Malati Powell for The Easterner
EWU huddles after a point is scored. The Eagles fell to Sac State in four sets Thursday.
September 26, 2019
The EWU volleyball team kicked off Big Sky Conference play with a 3-1 (14-25, 18-25, 25-21, 13-25) loss at the hands of Sacramento State Thursday.
EWU junior outside hitter MaKenna Davis winds up a serve during EWU’s 3-1 loss to Sac State Thursday.
In their first home game of the year, the Eagles (2-11, 0-1) got behind early and, despite a few strong runs and a third set win, ultimately weren’t able to keep up with the Hornets (6-8, 1-0).
“That’s a really, really good Sacramento State team,” said head coach Leslie Flores-Cloud. “We were slow out of the gates and I think once we found some rhythm, we were able to show how good we can be.”
The Eagles were led by sophomore Ashlyn Blotzer, junior Catelyn Linke and freshman Nicoletta Capizzi, who combined for 21 kills. Blotzer, who led the team with eight kills, also led the team in blocks with four. Junior Puaoolelagi Sao had 15 digs and junior ShaRae Niu had 14 assists.
EWU sophomore middle blocker Ashlyn Blotzer prepares to serve during EWU’s 3-1 loss to Sac State Thursday.
Sacramento State was led by junior Cianna Andrews and senior Sarah Davis who had 12 kills apiece. Junior Michelle Taynton contributed 18 digs to the Hornets’ victory.
“I think we ran out of gas,” Flores-Cloud said. “We have the ability to play really good Eagles volleyball and that’s what we’re looking for and will always strive for that.”
Over 500 fans were in attendance at Reese Court Thursday.
“The environment was great—a huge fan base tonight,” Blotzer said. “It really helped us to have fans cheering (us) on.”
The Eagles will be looking for their first home win of the year tomorrow as they take on Portland State at 7:05 p.m. at Reese Court. The game is free for both students and the general public.
