NEWBERG, Ore. --- After coming out strong in the first set, the Bruins could not hold back the charging Lutes, resulting in a 3-1 loss.

How It Happened
Coming off only their second conference loss the week before against Whitworth, the Bruins came out of the gates hot against the Lutes, taking the first set in decisive 25-11 fashion. 12 kills and a game-winning block by Kennedy Kibby and Bailey LeBreton by the Bruins led to the dominant victory. Hoping to keep this momentum going, the Bruins tried to keep the charging Lutes at bay in the second set but were unable to do so. The Bruins got to within three points late in the set, but lost the set 20-25, tying the match.

With the playing field now even again, both teams came out with energy in the third set. A 7-2 run from the Lutes erased a two-point Bruin lead and gave PLU the advantage. The Bruins once again were unable to match the Lutes, dropping their second set, 25-20. In the fourth, the Bruins stayed close at first but never led in the set. 14 kills from the Lutes in their 25-17 set victory gave the Bruins a 3-1 loss.    

Top Performers
Addison Robertson led the way offensively for the Bruins with 13 kills, followed closely by Kassandra Staton with 11. To help support these two big hitters, Kennedy Kibby led the way for the Bruins with 19 assists, followed closely by Addison Hawes, who racked up 16. Bailey LeBreton led the Bruins at the net with 7 blocks, while Piper Harrop held down the back end with 19 digs.   

Coach's Thoughts
"Tonight was a big game," Bruin head coach Emily Davis, "We didn't play as a team and it showed. I'm hopeful we will be able to bounce back. PLU did a fantastic job tonight, they deserved the win."

What It Means
This loss drops the Bruins to 7-7 overall, with a 4-3 conference record. The Lutes moved up to a 4-4 NWC mark.

What Happens Next
The Bruins return home take on the Willamette Bearcats tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. at Wheeler Sports Center in Newberg.