Fans of UT Permian Basin Volleyball are used to seeing big numbers out of
Analise Lucio and
Aquincia Strambler, but the dynamic duo might have put together their best yet Thursday night against Texas A&M – Commerce. Lucio recorded 51 assists, a new career high in a four-set match, while Strambler finished with 19 kills, tying her career high for a four-set match. Both players showed off on the defensive end with nine digs, while Strambler also assisted on five blocks.
The Falcons went up early in the first set thanks to a 6-1 run, but the Lions came back to even things with a four-point run of their own. A 3-0 run late in the set gave the Falcons a chance to take it. They had four set points but were unable to close and fell 28-26.
Set two saw the Falcons once again take charge early. Despite that early momentum, the Lions came back with a 7-1 run. The Falcons answered with an 8-1 run of their own, aided by four Lion errors, to reclaim the momentum. That was enough of a window to cruise down the stretch and take the set 25-21.
It was the Falcons again with the lead early in the set, jumping out to an 8-3 lead in the third. A long run by the Lions saw them creep back in it, but the Falcons answered with a 6-1 run. The Falcons had the lead late, but the Lions were able to come back and take the set 25-21.
The fourth set this time saw the Lions in charge early. With the score 21-12, the Falcons made a run. They scored nine of the next 12 points and began to climb back into the set. It was too late as they were able to fight off three match points before the Lions were able to end it 25-21.
Isela Murillo had a big night for the Falcons with 11 kills and 15 digs.
Stephanie Sanchez added 10 kills and seven digs while
Taurie Magee had nine kills and four blocks. The Falcon defense had nine blocks on the night.
Daylee Doggett added to her case to be on the All-Conference team with 23 digs to lead all players.
The Falcons play once more in the regular season on Saturday against No. 13 UT Tyler. Prior to the game the Falcons will honor their seniors. Download the UTPB Athletics App to follow the team all season long.
