AUSTIN, Texas—The St. Edward's volleyball team suffered its first loss of the season, falling to the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, 3-0, Saturday afternoon at the Recreation and Convocation Center.
 
The two teams were neck-and neck in the beginning of the first set. St. Edward's was within one point at 10-9, when UA Fort Smith got hot. The away team went on a 6-0 run to open up the set in its favor. It went on to win 25-18.
 
Using momentum from the first set, the Lions captured an early 13-7 lead in the second set. St. Edward's rallied back to tie UA Fort Smith, 18-18, but its comeback would fall short. The visitors finished the set 25-19.
 
The Lions did not give up the lead a single time in the third and final set. Although St. Edward's came within five points down the stretch, UA Fort Smith held on to win 25-16.
 
Despite the loss, Coach Sean Donahue notes that going undefeated was never the main goal for the season. "We will have to come back next game and continue to fight hard."
 
Kelly Jimenez registered four assists and a match-high 33 digs. Amy Jones and Hannah Rauch led the team in kills with eight and seven, respectively. Loren Kelly recorded 18 assists and Mary Koehler tallied two aces.
 
The Hilltoppers will be back in action against UT-Permian Basin in Odessa, Texas on Oct. 2 at 7:00 p.m. Live video and statistics will be available on the Falcon Athletic Website.