Missouri Western Volleyball started conference play out, falling to Northwest Missouri State in four sets (16-25, 25-19, 25-21, 25-18).

The Griffons were coming off two strong showings at the Dacotah Bank Classic and the Middle of Everywhere Classic to prep for the beginning of the conference schedule. Coming into the night, the Griffons set at 6-2 playing the Bearcats who were 4-4.

In the first set MWSU fed off the crowd’s energy, starting out a 6-0 rally. NWMSU fought back, but the Griffons stayed in control throughout, helped by Jessie Thorup and Stephanie Hattey, who had 4 kills apiece. The Griffons won 25-16.

The Bearcats clawed their way back in the next set, leading the whole way through. The Griffons came back to draw within 1 point, but NWMSU continued its strong play to win the set 25-19 to tie the match 1-1.

Both teams came out after the 2nd set-break looking to take the advantage. Northwest held a slim 7-4 lead at the beginning and built on it to lead 20-15. NWMSU held on to take the set 25-21 and gained the important 3rd set to take a 2-1 advantage.

Needing the 4th set, the Griffons fell behind 13-3. Momentum switched in the Griffons favor shortly afterward, as they went on a 10-4 run to keep the set close at 17-13. However, Northwest kept control and took the final set to complete the 3-1 victory.

Stephanie Hattey led the Griffons with 10 kills and 11 digs. Freshman Jessie Throup had a strong showing, scoring 8 kills to help Missouri Western stay in the game.

Northwest’s Brooke Bartosh had a game-high 21 kills. Tori Beckman led the Bearcats with 30 digs and Dallas Gardner had 31 assists.

The Griffons lost their first MIAA opener since 2009 when they fell to Fort Hays State 3-2.

Missouri Western plays again Friday, Sept. 14 to play Missouri Southern. The match is set for 7 p.m. at the MWSU Fieldhouse.

— MWSU Sports Information —