CINCINNATI – The IU Indy volleyball team took their first loss of the season falling to Xavier on Thursday evening in four sets with scores of 24-26, 25-21, 25-18, 25-17.
The first set began with a tightly contested battle as both teams exchanged early points, with Xavier taking a narrow 8-5 lead. The Jaguars rallied back with a crucial stretch as
Jillian Tippmann delivered three consecutive kills, leveling the score at 17-17. The set concluded with
Elle Patterson securing the final two points, including a decisive kill handing the Jaguars a 26-24 victory in a thrilling first set.
The Jaguars began the second set quickly with a service ace from Long at 3-2. Consecutive contributions from Ostrowski and Patterson, facilitated by
Grace Purichia's assists, helped the team build a 14-6 lead. However, a strong rally by the Musketeers, driven by Anna Taylor's attacks, saw the home team overcome the deficit to clinch the set 25-21.
The third set began with a balanced exchange of points between both teams, but Xavier managed to pull ahead with a 4-point run, making it 10-6. The Jaguars responded with strong performances from Ostrowski and Patterson, who each contributed key kills, narrowing the gap to 11-13. Despite these efforts, Xavier maintained their lead, eventually closing out the set 25-18.
The fourth set began with Long securing the first point for the Jags, but Xavier quickly responded, establishing a 4-1 lead. The Jaguars attempted to close the gap with Patterson and
Ninah Miranda each delivering kills, bringing the score to 9-8. Despite a strong mid-set surge from Miranda, who recorded four kills, Xavier maintained their edge with a late 6-2 run which sealed the set 25-17.
Purichia delivered another strong performance with 40 assists across four sets, while also adding 13 digs and two service aces. Patterson led the team offensively, recording 14 kills and contributing with six digs.
Laura Roeder led the defense collecting 21 digs.
Amanda Stephens added two solo blocks and three kills.
IU Indy falls to 3-1 on the season and will continue the Xavier Tournament when they face Eastern Kentucky tomorrow at 3:00 PM.
