AUSTIN, Texas - The St. Edward's volleyball team was defeated by Angelo State, 3-1 in a non-conference meeting Friday evening in the Recreation and Convocation Center.
 
The regional matchup made for a competitive four sets. In set one, the two teams were in a dead heat, until a five-point run from the RamBelles brought the score to 22-17. Two consecutive kills by HANNAH RAUCH were not enough to rattle Angelo State (15-5) as it went on to win 25-20.
 
The RamBelles opened up the second set with just as much intensity, but this time St. Edward's (14-5) matched it. The visitors struggled to create distance between themselves and the battling Hilltoppers, who tied the score at 15-all. The set would go down to the wire, but two errors by Angelo State gave the home team a 25-23 victory.
 
Tied at one game each, the third set was pivotal for both teams. The RamBelles saw a five point lead mid-set, but St. Edward's was quick to close the gap. Three kills in a row gave the Hilltoppers a 20-19 lead. Angelo State then scored six, unanswered points to close the set 25-20.
 
As the fourth set began, it seemed as though the visiting team might run away with the match. Angelo State outscored St. Edward's 14-5, making it an uphill battle for the Hilltoppers. The home team rallied back to come within five points, but it would not be enough to force a fifth set. The RamBelles finished the set, 25-18.
 
Senior libero KELLY JIMENEZ led the team with 26 digs. MARY KOEHLER tallied a double-double with 10 kills and 18 digs. LOREN KELLY registered 20 assists with AVALON FRANTZ following with 12 assists of her own.
 
The match celebrated the women's volleyball Annual Dig Pink Rally. The squad partnered with the Side-Out Foundation to reach an $1,000 in-game donation goal. At 85% funded, the team has nearly fulfilled the goal. To help the Hilltoppers accomplish their mission, please visit https://www.side-out.org/cb/campaigns/campaign/8571 and donate.
 
St. Edward's resumes Heartland Conference play Saturday afternoon as they host the Newman Jets at noon in the RCC. Live coverage and statistics can be found on the Hilltopper Athletic Website.