DES MOINES, Iowa – The Belmont University volleyball team (14–9, 5–7) wrapped up its Iowa road trip Saturday evening, falling 3–0 to Drake inside the Knapp Center. Despite bursts of strong play and balanced contributions across the lineup, the Bruins couldn't find enough consistency to slow down the Bulldogs, dropping the match by scores of 25–14, 25–21, and 25–17.
After a back-and-forth start in the opening set, Drake began to pull away midway through, taking advantage of Belmont's struggles to finish rallies. Kills from Erin McMullen and Brenna Kauffeld highlighted solid offensive moments, but the Bulldogs' steady attack proved too much as they took the first frame.
Belmont responded in the second with better energy and improved execution, sparked by an early kill from Mialee Dabbelt and a block from Bella Mathis. Lexi Smollen added a lift off the bench on the right side as the Bruins found momentum. However, a series of small errors and pressure from Drake's serve receive disrupted Belmont's rhythm late, allowing the Bulldogs to edge ahead and take the set, 25–21.
The Bruins came out strong again in the third behind an early block from McMullen and an ace from Brooke Gilleland. Mathis delivered several powerful swings, and Alexia Smollen added a key block to keep Belmont within reach. Despite a late push highlighted by clutch plays from Connie Kofoed, Drake closed out the match with a 25–17 win.
What's Bruin:
Up Next:
Belmont Volleyball returns home to take on Valparaiso on Thursday, November 7, at 1 p.m. CT inside the Curb Event Center.
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