West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's women's volleyball team lost a close five-set match to UT Martin on Friday at Skyhawk Fieldhouse. The Leathernecks, led by graduate outside hitter Keyana Cruse with 23 kills, put up a strong performance but ultimately fell 3–2.

In the opening set, Western Illinois took an early lead with contributions from freshman Ashlee Markert and senior Elizabeth Ziegler. Junior setter Madelyn Norton and freshman Jaleah Bauss kept the offense organized. A service ace by Norton and a final kill from Cruse secured the first set for WIU, 25–22.

UT Martin responded in the second set, overcoming a late deficit. Senior Grace Kremer and junior Hillary Estes made key plays for Western Illinois, but consecutive service aces helped UT Martin even the match at one set each. Cruse continued to lead offensively while sophomore libero Karlie Lane added two service aces.

The third set saw UT Martin take advantage of attack errors by Western Illinois. Despite efforts from freshman Martyna Sowiak and Ziegler at the net, UT Martin used a mid-set run to pull ahead and win 25–19.

Western Illinois answered in the fourth set with their best hitting percentage of the night (.297). Cruse had six kills in this frame while Sowiak and Kremer contributed blocks. Junior defensive specialist Grace Ulatowski provided important digs and an ace as WIU forced a deciding fifth set.

The final set was closely contested with six ties. Late kills from Cruse and Markert kept WIU close, but UT Martin won the last two points to secure a 15–13 victory.

Western Illinois will next play against Eastern Illinois University on October 14 at home at 6 PM.

For more information about Leatherneck Volleyball, visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow their social media accounts for updates.