VOLLEYBALL

The Huntington volleyball team made the trip to Upland for its conference opener Wednesday evening where they suffered a 3-1 loss, 21-25, 25-19, 26-16, 25-22, to the Trojans (9-4, 1-0) of Taylor University. The loss snaps the Foresters’ five-game win streak as they drop to 5-2 on the year, 0-1 in league action.

The Trojans (9-4, 1-0) got off to a slow start this season, losing three of their first four matches, but have since gone 8-1 which includes winning their last five.

One of the notable discrepancies of the match was offensive efficiency. Taylor logged 54 kills at a rate of .248 compared to their visitors who finished with 45 kills and a .140 hitting percentage. Jennings Tacosik handed out 31 assists as one of seven different Foresters who posted at least one assist. The result was a disruption to their typical flow and speaks to some of HU’s offensive woes.

“Tonight we saw chaotic volleyball and didn’t remain disciplined on our end,” said Coach Herber. “This weekend we have an opportunity to play in a tournament where we can improve both fundamentally and mentally.”

Paige Eakright finished with 15 kills to pace her team at the net. Tacosik added eight in addition to collecting ten digs. Ariene Butler also posted double digit digs with a game-tying 18.

TU out blocked the Foresters 6-3 while aces were a wash with Taylor logging eight to HU’s seven.

“In talking to the team after the match, their biggest take-away was that they didn’t feel like we played as a family,” said Coach Herber. “These girls have built a foundation of togetherness, fearlessness, aggression and discipline.

“Therefore, they have the tools. It’s time to put those tools to use moving forward. I love this team and would choose them any day. They have what it takes.”

The Foresters will compete in the Fisk University Invitational this weekend in Nashville, Tenn.