NASHVILLE – Tennessee State showed fight throughout its Ohio Valley Conference opener but fell to SIU Edwardsville in straight sets (19-25, 15-25, 13-25) Friday night inside Kean Hall.
Junior outside hitter Aliyah Harris powered the Tigers' attack, finishing with a match-high 13 kills while hitting .600. Defensively, Erini Bitsaktsi anchored the back row with 11 digs, also a match best. Freshman setter Sagaia Reilly continued her strong debut season, dishing out 21 assists to pace the offense, while Sydni Poston added an ace from the service line.
The loss moved TSU to 1-12 overall and 0-1 in OVC play.
How It Happened
Set 1 – The Tigers came out swinging, recording 13 kills and a .357 hitting percentage in the opening frame. Despite the efficient start, SIUE was able to edge ahead late to claim the set 25-19.
Set 2 – TSU looked to regroup but dropped the second set 25-15 as the Cougars extended their lead in the match.
Set 3 – The Tigers continued to battle in the final frame, which was tied three times early. SIUE pulled away after 6-5 to close the match with a 25-13 decision.
Game Notes
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Harris led all players with 13 kills and a .600 hitting percentage.
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Bitsaktsi posted a match-high 11 digs.
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Reilly finished with 21 assists, also a match high.
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Poston recorded an ace for TSU.
Up Next
The Tigers and Cougars meet again on Saturday at 2 p.m.. inside Kean Hall. TSU will look to even the weekend series and earn its first OVC victory of the season.
Know Before You Go
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Location: Kean Hall, Tennessee State University
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Tickets: $10 at the gate; children 5 and under are free
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Gates Open: 1 p.m.
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Fans: Arrive early, wear your Blue & White, and help us #PackKean as the Tigers fight for their first conference win
