NEWBERG, Ore. --- George Fox volleyball is back after 475 days away from the court and fell in three sets to Bushnell, an NAIA foe.

How It Happened

The Bruins started the night strong with good passing and quality swings, but the Beacons' rhythm showed through after the early going. Both sides swung at an identical .191 in the opening set, but the Beacons produced four extra kills in the set to take the opener, 25-23.

George Fox fell behind early and had difficulty rotating against the serves of the Beacons' libero to start the second set, putting the Bruins in a hole that was hard to dig out of. The Bruins fought back to narrow the lead, but the late push fell short in a 25-16 defeat.

The Bruins jumped out to an early lead behind great service from Piper Harrop at the line, but the Beacons were able to recover and forced the issue late. George Fox continued to keep it competitive throughout and never gave up, but fell again by 25-23 to close the match in three sets.

Top Performers

Laney Search tallied 26 assists, nine digs, and a block in the defeat, while Paige O'Rear led with 11 kills. Sophia Lawrence added 17 digs on the back line to keep the Bruins in the fight.

What It Means

George Fox falls to 0-1 to start the season while the Beacons improve to 6-2.

What Happens Next

George Fox will have two weeks to prep for their abbreviated Northwest Conference slate that opens at Pacific (Ore.) on Mar. 12.