CONTINUED STRIDES FROM MEN’S VOLLEYBALL VERSUS SOUTHWEST BAPTIST

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Avila men's volleyball played its second game against the same opponent for the first time this season, falling to Southwest Baptist 3-0 on Friday evening, but with a more competitive contest the second time around.

The visiting Bearcats took the first set, 25-9, but Avila was mere points away from victories in the second a third.

Avila picked up the first three points of the second set thanks, in part, to a service ace from Sebastian Williams followed by a Sebastian Rodriguez kill.

Avila held a lead until, at 12-10, Southwest Baptist went on a 5-0 run to take control. Avila kept it within four for the remainder of the set, including holding the Bearcats on three-straight set points, before ultimately falling, 25-23.

The Eagles got in a quick 4-0 hole in the third set, but a 6-3 run midway through would bring Avila to within three at 13-10. Avila once again traded points back-and-forth with SBU, before the Bearcats took the third, 25-20.

Jake Fogle played the best game of his young career, putting up a season-best 15 assists in the contest. Darren Zheng's nine digs were the second-most of his young career.

Sebastian Williams led the way offensively with eight kills for Avila. 

The two teams will be back at it on Saturday. First serve from Mabee Fieldhouse is at 12 PM.

 (photo credit: Ali Nassir)