Box Score MOREHEAD, Ky. - - Belmont University Volleyball dropped a three-set decision to Morehead State Saturday, 20-25, 25-27, 21-25.
Pushing the undefeated Eagles to the limit, Belmont showcased some of its best defense and resiliency of the spring season.
After falling behind 7-3, the Bruins got strong defense and transition to work back into the set.
Kills from freshman Kristen Clemons (Louisville, Ky.) and senior Halee Van Poppel (Argyle, Texas) got Belmont within 15-14.
And while the Bruins held Morehead St to .081 hitting in the opening set, the serving of Taylor Hodges enabled the hosts to build a working margin and win Set 1, 25-20.
Belmont demonstrated sharp transition as its offense worked into a rhythm in Set 2, with Clemons and freshman Ally Peterson (Kenyon, Minn.) providing strong swings and consistent production. And though Morehead State built modest leads of three points on two occasions, Belmont would not go away quietly. A series of lengthy rallies saw the Bruins win timely points, with net play from freshman Sydney Willis (Old Hickory, Tenn.) and junior Taylor Floyd (Louisville, Ky.) leading the way.
Belmont staved off two set points, before Morehead State snuck away with Set 2, 27-25.
Though likely deserving more out of the first two sets, Belmont did not show any signs of discouragement, getting kills from Van Poppel and Floyd to lead 9-6 early in Set 3.
Morehead State entered play hitting .265, but the Bruins truly made the hosts labor and string multiple digs and swings together simply to earn a point.
Another highly-competitive set hung in the balance once teams hit 20, but behind Lauren Rokey and Olivia Lohmeier Morehead State was able to close the match.
Clemons and Van Poppel each recorded eight kills while Mason had 26 assists.
The two teams return to action Sunday. First serve is set for 12 p.m. CT.
