West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's women's volleyball team secured a 3–1 victory over SIUE on Saturday at First Community Arena. The win brings the Leathernecks' overall record to 4–13 and marks their first Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) win of the season, moving them to 1–3 in conference play.

The match began with a closely contested first set, featuring nine ties and seven lead changes. Western Illinois trailed late but came back with kills from Kennedy Adair and Keyana Cruse. A service ace by Madelyn Norton gave the Leathernecks set point, and Cruse finished the comeback with another kill for a 26–24 win.

SIUE responded in the second set, taking an early lead and maintaining control throughout. Despite defensive efforts from Adair and Hillary Estes, Western Illinois dropped the set 25–15 as SIUE tied the match.

The third set was again tightly contested, with 15 ties and extended rallies. Key kills from Elizabeth Ziegler, Adair, and Cruse helped Western Illinois stay competitive. The Leathernecks managed to withstand a late surge from SIUE to take another 26–24 win.

In the fourth set, Western Illinois delivered a balanced performance led by Cruse, Adair, and Ashlee Markert. Norton and Alysia Perez directed the offense effectively while the front line contributed crucial blocks. Cruse's late kill followed by an ace from Perez sealed a 25–22 victory for Western Illinois.

With this result, Western Illinois will continue OVC play next weekend on the road against UT Martin.