CEDAR CITY, Utah - The Southern Utah University volleyball program fell short in their home opener against California State Fullerton. It was a close contest, with the Titans narrowly edging out the Thunderbirds in five sets.

The Thunderbirds fell behind early in the first set, as the Titans started with a 5-1 run. SUU battled back to make it a two point game, with the score being 8-6. This was the closest the T-Birds would get, however. California State Fullerton went on a run to extend the lead to seven points late in the match. The Titans would go on to win the first set 25-19.

The second set saw the Titans leap out to a 16-8 lead. Facing an eight point deficit, the Thunderbirds stormed back into the game with a 14-3 run, taking the lead late in the set. The Titans responded with a 8-2 run of their own to claim the second set 28-26.

The third set saw another quick start for Cal State Fullerton, as they rushed ahead to take a 12-3 advantage. The Thunderbirds came roaring back to take the lead with a 8-2 run, highlighted by four kills from Sophomore Molly McDermott. SUU used this momentum to secure the third set 25-20.

Southern Utah looked to win the fourth set and tie the match at two sets apiece. This time it was the T-Birds who came out with a strong start, building a 10-5 lead. CSUF bounced back to take a narrow 14-13 lead, but they didn't hold onto it for long. SUU pressed their advantage to take a critical six point lead late in the set. A huge kill from Rylee Achtzehn seized the set with a score of 25-22

The Thunderbirds scored three of the first four points to begin the final set. Ultimately this match proved to be a game of runs, and a 9-1 run from the Titans saw them take a commanding 10-4 lead. Cal State Fullerton held on to win the set and match with a score of 15-8.

Senior Raegen Beeson had an impressive outing tonight for Southern Utah as she totaled 17 points, including 13 kills. Macy Short also had a tremendous night, adding a team high 37 assists. 

Up Next

Southern Utah will be back on their homecourt Monday afternoon, where they will host Northern Arizona University. The match is scheduled to start at 1 p.m. MT. 

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