West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's women's volleyball team secured a five-set win against Tennessee State on Friday at Western Hall. The match marked the Leathernecks' third victory in Ohio Valley Conference play this season.

In the first set, Western Illinois established an early lead with strong serving and offense, finishing with a .318 hitting percentage and holding Tennessee State to -.095. The Leathernecks won the opening frame 25–13, aided by nine kills and three team blocks.

The second set continued in Western Illinois' favor, as a balanced attack and solid defense led to an 11-kill performance and another three blocks. They closed out the set 25–18 to take a 2–0 lead in the match.

Tennessee State responded in the third set by applying serving pressure, which resulted in five aces. Despite Western Illinois' 18 kills and .283 hitting percentage, Tennessee State took the set 25–23.

The Tigers maintained their momentum into the fourth set, recording a .436 hitting percentage and limiting Western Illinois to 12 kills. Tennessee State evened the match by winning the set 25–18.

In the deciding fifth set, Western Illinois regrouped. The team's front line made key defensive plays, including two important blocks that helped hold Tennessee State to a .111 hitting percentage. The Leathernecks secured the final set 15–12 and claimed a 3–2 overall victory.

Western Illinois finished with 58 kills, 13 team blocks, and 77 digs while hitting .256 as a team. Their season record now stands at 6–16 overall and 3–6 in conference play; Tennessee State is now at 1–23 overall (0–11 OVC).

The two teams are scheduled to meet again on Saturday at Western Hall.

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