Caitlin Vukorpa | Echo
The TU volleyball team fell to Bethel 3-0 on the road Wednesday, ending regular season League play for the 2013 season.
The Trojans fell behind quickly in the opening set, trailing 5-1. Battling back, Taylor brought the set to a 6-6 tie. However, Bethel scored four of the next five points, gaining momentum that would result in a 25-19 win.
The Pilots' play continued into the second set as Bethel scored 10 of the first 14 points, cruising to a 25-12 victory. The sweep was completed in the third set as Bethel continued to dominate, winning 25-16.
"We struggled to execute our game," said head coach Holly Motheral. "This week we will be working on hitting different shots around a block, blocking and hitter coverage."
With a hitting percentage of .000, Taylor recorded its worst match of the season. Junior Jackie Close led the Trojan hitters with five kills. Sophomore Julia Willey had nine assists while sophomore Olivia Griffith added seven. Kelsey Carr, the Crossroads Libero of the Week, led the Trojans with 18 digs.
With the sweep over Taylor, Bethel (20-9, 15-2) claimed the regular season Crossroads League championship. Originally tying Indiana Wesleyan with a record of 15-2, the Pilots earned the title by also sweeping the Wildcats in regular season play. The Trojans finished third in the League and will be seeded third in the upcoming Crossroads League Tournament beginning Tuesday, Nov. 5.
"Our goal is to win the tournament and go to the NAIA National Tournament," Motheral said. "We must execute our game plan and focus on staying consistent in all aspects of our play."
The Trojans (17-10, 13-5) will finish the regular season with away matches against University Southeast and Campbellsville on Nov. 2.
Photography by Timothy P. Riethmiller
