RIVERSIDE, Calif. - The Southern Utah University volleyball team played their first conference game tonight, falling to California Baptist in three tightly contested sets.

The Thunderbirds came out strong, taking a 3-1 lead behind two kills from Makenzie Templeton. The match proved to be an absolute battle, as neither team could build a significant lead. The two squads found themselves tied 20-20, each eying to make a run to clinch the set. A huge block shared by Molly McDermott and Carissa Richie saw the Thunderbirds take a 24-22 lead. However, the Lancers responded with four consecutive points to steal the first set with a score of 26-24.

The second set was a back and forth affair. The Thunderbirds held an early 8-6 lead, but were unable to hold it as the Lancers came back to tie the set. It was looking to be another close round before California Baptist went on a 6-0 run to swing the momentum in their favor. The Lancers took a commanding 17-11 lead over Southern Utah. The T-Birds didn't give up, mustering a three point run to claw back into the game. It wasn't enough in the end, as California Baptist won in another close set, 25-21.

Molly McDermott was electric to begin the third set. Her three consecutive kills started things off on the right foot, as SUU took an early 3-1 lead. The Thunderbirds continued this hot start, taking a 10-5 lead over the Lancers. A powerful kill from Raegen Beeson gave the Thunderbirds a 13-9 advantage. This was the last time the T-Birds would have a lead, however, as the Lancers went on a scorching hot 9-2 run to take the upper hand. Southern Utah would trim the Cal Baptist lead to just one late in the set (20-19), but that was the closest they would get. The Lancers would go on to win the set 25-21, and the match 3-0.

Despite the loss, many Thunderbirds showed out in their first game in the Western Athletic Conference. Molly McDermott carried the offense tonight, totaling nine kills during the match. Senior Raegen Beeson wasn't far behind, with eight kills of her own. As usual, Macy Short did an excellent job as the team's setter, totaling 27 assists through the three sets. This game was closer than the scoreboard would suggest, as each set was a close contest.

Up Next

The Thunderbirds will play their first home conference game against in-state rival Utah Tech on Saturday. The game is scheduled to begin at 12:00 p.m. MT.

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