Volleyball’s Nine Match Winning Streak Snapped by UC Irvine

Belmont Vision Multimedia

Belmont University volleyball put up a strong fight but ultimately fell to UC Irvine by a 3-1 score in a high-energy matchup marked by momentum swings and intense rallies.  

The Bruins came out with momentum in the first set. Led by Brooke Gilleland and Connie Kofoed, the Bruins opened the match with a commanding 25-13 win in set one. 

UC Irvine rallied together in the second set, countering with refined play, putting the Bruins into tough situations.  
 
 After Belmont tied up with UC Irvine in the second set, Irvine progressed further to build a 16-12 advantage.  

Despite a late drive in the set, Belmont fell 25-22, tying the match 1-1. 

The third set resulted in both teams fighting point-for-point.  
 
 A 15-14 score highlighted a restless back-and-forth exchange, causing UC Irvine to challenge two of Belmont’s plays, ultimately resulting in the points being upheld for the Bruins. 
 
 The Bruins continued with a strong pace, but Irvine kept their resilience to win their second set 25-22. 

Senior middle blocker Bella Mathis, who led the team in blocks, said her focus was, “staying on our hitter and closing the blocks when it's asked of me when I read the setter and being really efficient with my eye work so I’m able to get to the pins and close or set up a good block.”  

Belmont fought back in the fourth set, tying the score at 12-12 after an ace by Sophomore setter Alivia Keegan and later taking the lead with Mathis’ blocks and a kill. 
 
 UC Irvine retaliated late to finish the set 25-23 and brought home the win for the Anteaters. 
 
The Bruins take on Murray State for their first conference match of the season Thursday at home. -   

This article was written by Kali Akridge