AUSTIN, Texas—St. Edward's volleyball team was defeated by Lubbock Christian, 3-1, Thursday evening in Heartland Conference action at the Recreation and Convocation Center.
 
The first set saw down-to-the-wire action. The visitors took an early four-point lead, but the Hilltoppers came back to tie it, 12-12. From that point, the two teams traded the lead until gridlocking at 22-22. Two kills from Chaparral Amy Edwards gave Lubbock Christian the 25-23 set one victory.
 
The Chaps scored five unanswered points to open the second set. Just as in the first set, St. Edward's rallied back, including two-consecutive kills by ELISSA STANTON and a service ace from JACLYN BILLIE. Even at 13-13, the visiting team made a move to create space. Although the Hilltoppers would come within one down the stretch, Lubbock Christian hung on, winning, 25-22.
 
Lubbock Christian lost steam in the third set and St. Edward's took full advantage. Down the stretch, the Hilltoppers went on a 9-0 run taking a 24-17 advantage. HANNAH RAUCH delivered the set-winner. Set three went to St. Edward's who hit .256 and registered 15 kills.
 
The Hilltoppers would fall short of a comeback in the end as the Chaps took the fourth and final set, 25-20. Lubbock Christian tallied 17 kills to bury St. Edward's hopes of winning the match.
 
Freshman outside-hitter KATIE MARTIN recorded her first double-double on the season with 14 kills and 12 digs. KELLY JIMENEZ saw a match-high 35 digs. Splitting setting duties, LOREN KELLY and JACLYN BILLIE marked down 23 and 22 assists, respectively.
 
St. Edward's resumes Heartland Conference play hosting UT-Permian Basin on Saturday in the RCC. First serve is set for noon. Live coverage and statistics will be available on the Hilltopper Athletic Website.