POCATELLO, Idaho – Seattle University volleyball stumbled on day two of the Idaho State Tournament in Pocatello, Idaho, dropping a 25-21, 13-25, 18-25, 16-25 decision to the host Bengals at Reed Gym.
The Redhawks (1-1) managed to hit just .018 for the match, racking up 31 errors to their 33 kills. The Bengals (1-1) found more efficiency on offense, hitting .254 for their first win of the season.
"We struggled to get our offense going today," said Head Coach Dan Behnke. "Give credit to Idaho State, they executed their game plan. We made some adjustments, but their passing and defense continued to make it difficult on us."
A closely contested first set saw Seattle U clinch the three final points, including back-to-back aces from freshman Ivy Brown. But as the Bengals' attack found rhythm, the Redhawks did not.
Idaho State claimed the second set by a 12-point margin. The Redhawks put together a strong rally late in the third set, clawing back from a 22-12 deficit and staving off four set points before succumbing to the 25-18 final. The Bengals would lead wire-to-wire in the fourth set to seal the match.
Arianna Bilby and Yasemin Elmas had nine kills each to lead the Redhawks. Katlyn Sipes collected 11 digs and Merima Smajlovic added 10. Freshman setter Anae Asuncion had 17 assists, nine digs, two kills and two blocks in her collegiate debut.
The Redhawks will look to bounce back Sunday morning, wrapping up play at Reed Gym against San Diego State at 10 a.m. Mountain Time, 9 a.m. Pacific. The match will air live on ESPN+.
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