ADA, Okla. – The East Central University volleyball team wrapped up its nonconference schedule Tuesday night, taking the first two sets against the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith before the Lions rallied to claim a 3-2 victory at the Kerr Activities Center.
With nonconference play complete, the Tigers will turn their full attention to Great American Conference action as they prepare to resume league play Thursday, Oct. 22, against Northwestern Oklahoma State University at 6 pm.
The Tigers (9-15, 4-7 GAC) came out strong, edging the Lions 26-24 in the opening set before earning a 27-25 win in the second to take a 2-0 lead. ECU recorded 14 kills in the first set and added 16 more in the second, putting the Tigers in position to close out the match in straight sets.
Arkansas-Fort Smith responded in the third, though, finding its rhythm offensively to take the set 25-19 and extend the match. The fourth set featured another close battle, with both teams recording 14 kills, but the Lions came away with a 27-25 win to force a decisive fifth set.
In the final frame, the Tigers held a slim 9-8 lead midway through the fifth set, but Arkansas-Fort Smith responded with a late push to regain control. ECU stayed within striking distance, with kills from
Annabelle Nichter and
Addison Iman keeping the Tigers in the match. However, the Lions scored four of the final five points to secure the 15-11 set win and complete the 3-2 comeback victory.
Individually,
Addison Iman led the Tigers with 22 kills and 21 digs for a double-double, recording a team-high 23 points.
Annabelle Nichter added 11 kills while
Peyton Spahn recorded seven kills.
Emily Pena paced the offense with 29 assists and added 11 digs, while
Tatum Flemming recorded 23 assists and six digs.
Bryleigh Wallace also contributed 13 digs defensively.
