The Master’s University volleyball team looked for redemption against La Sierra University on Bross Court, but were unable to find it in a hard-fought, five-set battle Tuesday evening (15-25, 25-22, 12-25, 25-17, 12-15).

Trading the first two sets, the Mustangs found themselves down two sets to one heading into game 4, but responded with energy and 16 kills to force a game 5.

Head Coach Allan Vince weighed in on the match after the loss: “The last couple of matches have highlighted the depth of our program. In a moment’s notice an inexperienced athlete has been called upon to play an important role for this team against seasoned opponents. These are the matches that build confidence and expose weaknesses that will soon become strengths.”

In a starting lineup that included only one upperclassman, sophomores Rebecca Davis (Kingsburg, CA) and Jane Cisar (Albuquerque, NM) led the offense with 10 kills apiece, while junior setter Kayla Sims (Anchorage, AK) posted a match-high 30 assists and contributed 6 kills.

As a team, the Mustangs were a force at the net, posting a season high 12 total blocks led by freshman middle blocker Rissah Lozano (3.5 total blocks, 6 kills), but inconsistent serve reception and unforced errors never allowed the Mustangs to gain a lasting foothold in game 5.

After Labor Day, the Mustangs travel to the University of the Antelope Valley on September 6th to face the Pioneers at 7 p.m., the final match before conference play begins against Westmont College at home on September 9th.

“We have the right athletes for the challenges ahead of us, and I know that we will only use this defeat to prepare to win.” Coach Vince added. “As always, I am proud of these Lady Mustangs.”