Box Score

Upper Iowa’s volleyball team wrapped up their first day of action at the “Middle of Everywhere Tournament” in Rolla, Missouri.  The Peacocks lost a five-set match to the Panthers of Drury and now sit at 1-5 on the season. 

The Peacocks came out in the first set and dominated as they ran away with a 25-17 win thanks to a .306 hitting percentage.  Upper Iowa’s hitting percentage dropped off in sets two and three and it showed on the scoreboard as the Panthers picked up wins to take a 2-1 lead.  UIU hit a season-high .406 in the fourth set to tie the match 2-2.  The Panthers raced out to a 6-1 lead in the final set, but the Peacocks rallied and fought back to take a 10-9 lead.  Unfortunately, Drury scored six of the final eight points to claim a 15-12 victory and the match win. 

The Peacocks were led by Sara Vance’s 20 kills, while Nicky Brown added 13 and Kayla Wagner drove 12 balls to the court.  Skylar Lesan handed out 47 assists.  UIU’s defense was led by Vance’s 17 digs and 14 more each from Lesan and Danielle Gernes.  Lesan also added 2 solo blocks and 3 assisted blocks.

Upper Iowa will get back onto the court tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. against Chadron State and then complete their play in the tournament when they match up with Missouri Western State at 1 p.m.