VALDOSTA, Ga. --- Mississippi College fell to Valdosta State University in straight sets on Saturday.
Mary Grace Foster led the offensive effort for the Choctaws, recording 14 kills and contributing three assists over three sets.
Samarin Kipple was pivotal in defense, posting a team-high 19 digs and adding seven assists.
Reese Regner facilitated the attack with 16 assists while also collecting 14 digs.
Ellie Foco showed efficiency in her hitting, achieving a .375 hitting percentage with seven kills and one block assist.
MC opened the first set with a strong showing, securing an early 4-2 lead highlighted by a kill from
Emma Levingston set by Regner. Despite this promising start, the Blazers responded with a significant run, taking a 7-4 lead after a series of attack errors by MC and effective plays by Katie Callenberger and Sabrina Oncins.Â
The Blue and Gold managed to close the gap to 11-10 with contributions from
Meg Paparella and Foster. However, Valdosta regained control, extending their lead to 19-14 with efficient scoring from Macy Brown and Ava Young. Ultimately, Valdosta closed the set on top with a 25-16 victory, despite the Choctaws' efforts to stay competitive.
MC opened the second set with a strong offensive display, highlighted by Foco's kill assisted by
Sophia Saxon, giving them an early 3-0 lead. Despite maintaining momentum through additional key plays, including a block by
Rhaia Davey and Foco, the Blazers managed to counter with a series of attacks led by Brown, gradually evening the score.
As the set progressed, the Choctaws continued to battle with Foster contributing crucial kills, keeping the score close. However, the Blazers capitalized on several attack errors and finished the set on a strong run, ultimately overcoming MC 25-18.
The Blue and Gold showed resilience in the third set, narrowing the gap with a late push. Foco and
Felicity Pratt each registered key kills, supported by Foster's consistent setup, aiding in a comeback attempt. MC pushed back to within five points, closing the lead to 24-20 with a series of well-executed plays, including a block by
Cydney Mitchell and a kill by Davey. However, the Blazers ultimately secured the set with a final kill by Young, concluding the set and match, 25-20.
Looking ahead, the Choctaws will face Union on Thursday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. inside A.E. Wood Coliseum.
