After having their best start to a season since 2002 with a 10-4 record, the Raiders lost back to back games for the first time this season on Sept. 26. Valparaiso came to town on a mission as they swept the Raiders 3-0 to make WSU 0-2 in the Horizon League.
“This is a tough league,” head coach Susan Clements said. “Everyone won a lot out of non-conference against good competition.”
The first set went back and forth with nine ties and three lead changes. The score was tied at 14 when Valpo sparked an 11-4 run to close out the set and gain a 1-0 lead.
The second set was a very close and competitive with 14 ties and three lead changes. It came down to the wire as Valpo would score three straight points to win the set after going down 25-24.
After the break Haley Garr kicked off the third set with two straight points to give the Raiders hope. Valpo would battle back leading to six ties and three lead changes. The score was tied at 11 when Valpo began their set and game winning 14-9 run.
“We’re trying to keep them positive,” Clements said. “We had our moments, we just have to finish.”
Sophomore defensive specialist Jessie Thornton collected 15 digs in the match giving her an average of 4.4 per set on the season.
Outside hitter Katie Klusman led the team with 12 kills and 40 total attacks followed by fellow sophomore, middle blocker and defensive specialist, Megan Hopkins with 34 total attacks and 8 kills.
Senior middle blocker Marissa Aiello recorded 26 total attacks and nine kills while sophomore setter and defensive specialist Maddie Lohmeier collected 36 assists. (11.1 per set on the season).
The Raiders will look to bounce back on Friday, Oct. 2 as they travel to Milwaukee for another Horizon League conference matchup. The match will begin at 8 p.m.
Clements said, “We have to be ready to compete and make better adjustments on the court."
