SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The USF Cougars (12-10, 7-7 NSIC) faced off against the #7 Southwest Minnesota State Mustangs (19-4, 10-4 NSIC) in Marshall, MN. Despite a competitive start, the Cougars fell short, losing to SMSU in four sets with scores of 25-16, 22-25, 22-25, and 22-25. 

MATCH DETAILS 

Final Score: USF 1, #7 SMSU 3 (25-16, 22-25, 22-25, 22-25) 

Team Records: USF 12-10, #7 SMSU 19-4 

Match Recap 

USF came out strong, taking the first set 25-16 with solid plays and control on both sides of the ball. However, SMSU quickly regrouped and found their rhythm, bouncing back to narrowly edge out the Cougars in the next three sets. The final three sets stayed tight, with both teams trading points and momentum shifting frequently. But SMSU's efficient attack and consistent blocking made the difference in key moments, allowing them to take each of those sets by slim margins and secure the match. 

Key Coo 

• Sadie Voss finished with 19 kills, a .341 hitting percentage, and 10 digs. 

• Jordan Kuper contributed with 6 kills, 7 blocks, and a service ace. 

• Elise Gillen supported the offense with 26 assists and added 9 digs. 

• Faith Van Eck anchored the defense with 19 digs. 

• Abby Haus also provided 5 blocks. 

As a team, Sioux Falls recorded 52 kills, 7 service aces, and 13 blocks, but they couldn't overcome SMSU's 10 total blocks and solid attacking. The Cougars also tallied 69 digs in a hard-fought defensive effort. 

Up Next 

USF will aim to bounce back Friday, November 8th as they take on #21 Northern State at home in the Stewart Center at 6pm. 

For all things USF Volleyball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!