West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University faced a challenging match against Tennessee Tech on Friday, October 27, 2023. The game, held at Western Hall in Macomb, ended with the visiting Golden Eagles securing victory over the Leathernecks.

In the first set, Western Illinois started strong with an early lead, thanks to Annika Black's kill that initiated a 3-1 run. Kennedy Bauer contributed by maintaining WIU's advantage. However, despite their efforts and multiple ties late in the set, Tennessee Tech emerged victorious with a 27-25 win.

Tennessee Tech dominated early in the second set with a 7-3 run. Although WIU attempted to close the gap with contributions from Keyana Cruse and Maggie Craker, TTU maintained control and won the set 25-17.

The third set saw WIU regain momentum. A 4-0 run put them ahead at 5-2, and they managed to extend their lead through effective plays by Brittany Wulf and Julianna Schmidt. The Leathernecks secured this set with a score of 25-19.

Set four was competitive from the start. Despite an initial tie and subsequent runs from both teams, TTU ultimately clinched the set and match with a final score of 25-21 after a decisive 3-0 run.

Keyana Cruse led Western Illinois offensively with 15 kills and added 13 digs to her performance. Julianna Schmidt and Annika Black each achieved ten kills. Karli Wenzel topped the digs chart for WIU with 17, while Maggie Craker provided significant support with 48 assists. The Leathernecks out-blocked Tennessee Tech eight to five throughout the match.