Eastern Falls in Thursday’s fight at SEMO

CHARLESTON, Ill. – The Eastern Illinois volleyball team (6-14, 2-8 OVC) lost the front end of its two-game series to Southeast Missouri (10-10, 7-1 OVC) on Thursday night in Cape Girardeau. The Panthers were competitive throughout the contest, but ultimately lost 3-0.

Eastern got off to a hot start, quickly taking a 5-0 lead in the first set. However, the Redhawks regrouped and scored seven consecutive points as the game progressed to take a 12-10 lead. The Panthers briefly jumped to a 14-13 lead, but SEMO outscored EIU 12-6 and won the set 25-20.

The second set was close throughout, with five lead changes and several ties. The Redhawks finally gained control with a 6-1 victory that gave them a late lead 22-19. Eastern repelled three straight set points to get within one point, but failed to finish the rally as SEMO cruised to a narrow 25-23 win.

EIU fell behind early in the third and had to play catch-up for the remainder of the frame. The Panthers stayed within striking distance for most of the set, but were never able to put together a big enough run to equalize or take the lead as SEMO won the set 25-19 and closed out the game.

Matilda Dahlström led the East attack with a team-leading eight kills in the match. She was followed Tori Moheskywho had seven kills with an efficient batting average of .318.

Catalina Rochaix led the Panthers with 23 assists and added 10 digs for a double-double.

Two other Panthers reported double figures, including Laura Paniagua (19) and Destiny Wanderer (12).

Eastern will look to bounce back Friday when it takes on the Redhawks again at 5 p.m. ESPN+ and live stats coverage will be available.