LACEY, Wash. – Despite a career-high 19 kills from Mackenzie Carter, the Saints were unable to capitalize on Western Oregon's errors and fell in four sets on Thursday night.
 
After dropping the opening two sets, the Saints rallied back with an impressive 25-15 third set. The fourth set was filled with extra volleyball and drama as both sides went back and forth. In the end, Western Oregon managed to squeeze out the 32-30 victory and seal the match win.
 
The Saints and Wolves fought for control in the opening set with the Wolves making the final push to secure the 26-24 set victory.
 
Western Oregon dominated the second set from start to finish, ending with a 25-13 score.
 
However, the match started to change in the third set, with Saint Martin's offense coming alive. Carter collected five kills and led the surge as Saint Martin's responded with a 25-15 set victory.
 
In the final set, the score was tied 10 different times, with nine coming in the final 20 rallies. Neither wanted to give an inch, as both had multiple opportunities to secure the set. In the end, Western Oregon edged out the Saints to a tune of 32-30.
 
Carter broke her career-high in kills with 19, leading all players on the court. Kylie Coon posted a double-double with her 12-kill, 10-dig performance. Kallie Langford added six kills, while Annika Briggs returned to the court with four kills and a block. Kiana Pel and Kylie Alos combined for 25 digs, while Alyssa Bartlett led with 25 assists.
 
The Saints host Concordia on Saturday with a 5:15 p.m. start time. Live stats and video will be available on smusaints.com.