[August 29, 2008]

By: Houston Taylor

COMMERCE, Texas – Southern Arkansas got off to a rough start in opening its 2008 volleyball season, falling 17-25, 17-25, 10-25 in a 3-0 shutout to Texas A&M-Commerce (2-0) in the host team’s classic at the A&M Field House Friday.

Both teams exhibited early season tendencies with neither hitting exceptionally well as the Lions settled for a .225 hitting clip while holding the Lady Muleriders to just a -.034 percentage.

Rachel Lance, Brittany Williams and Terra Ousley each had five kills to lead A&M-Commerce, while Perla Faudoa had 17 assists. Williams added 12 digs for the Lions.

Sophomore Maggie Ross led SAU with six kills, while senior Sarah Bell and freshman Jordan White chipped in four each. Transfer sophomore Michaela Scroggins tossed up 18 assists and senior Mallory McKee finished with 11 digs.

After trailing 16-5 in the first game, Southern Arkansas closed it to 21-17 before taking the loss. The two teams were tied 11 times in the second set before the Lions went on a 9-1 run to seal the win. A&M-Commerce never trailed in the third game to complete the sweep.

The Lady Muleriders continue play in the classic Saturday, facing Southeastern Oklahoma State at 10 a.m. and Paul Quinn (Texas) College at 12:30 p.m.