Shepherd University Athletics

SHEPHERD FALLS TO CHARLESTON IN QUARTERFINALS

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Shepherd University dropped a 3-1 (30-27, 30-18, 25-30, 30-27) decision to University of Charleston in WVIAC Volleyball Tournament action at the Charleston Catholic Sports Complex on Friday night.

UC overcame a five-point deficit in the fourth game to close out the match.

The Golden Eagles grabbed the lead for keeps at 27-26. Rebecca LaBrake's kill ended the match to set up UC's semifinal battle with West Virginia State.

LaBrake led UC with 17 kills and Katy Skelly added 14 kills. Shepherd got nine kills and .533 hitting percentage from freshman Kori Ford (Fredericksburg, VA/Chancellor HS). Junior outside hitter Taylor Darnley (Yorktown, VA/Grafton HS) had a double-double of 18 digs and 13 kills.

"We came out with nothing to lose and gave them everything that they wanted," said SU head coach Sarah Smith. "I wish we were still playing in game five. They kind of stole the fourth. We were up five, but just couldn't hold on."

UC coach Brenda Stevens praised Shepherd. "They played very well. They ran their offense off the serve-receive and did a really nice job."

"You've got to win three to get to the NCAA's," continued Stevens as she looked ahead to the semifinals. "You have to win every match in tournament play. It doesn't matter who you play right now. State, Wheeling Jesuit, Fairmont State, they're all talented teams."

Shepherd completes its season at 14-19, while Charleston improves to 24-9.