Dayton, TN — Bryan College's volleyball team endured a challenging Saturday at Summers Gymnasium, dropping both matches of a doubleheader as the Lions fell to 2-27 overall and 1-11 in conference play.
The day began with a morning sweep at the hands of Reinhardt (GA), who dominated 25-15, 25-16, 25-22. The afternoon brought hope as Bryan pushed visiting Lindsey Wilson to five sets before falling 3-2 (22-25, 25-22, 21-25, 25-16, 13-15).
Reinhardt (20-4, 12-0) controlled the morning match from start to finish, hitting .340 as a team compared to Bryan's .129 clip. The Eagles spread the offense efficiently, with Zoe Van Waaijen leading the way with 10 kills on a remarkable .529 hitting percentage.
For Bryan, outside hitter
Shelby Kelly fought through the difficult match with a team-high 10 kills, though she hit just .120 on 25 attempts. Junior,
Bella Beard added seven kills on .375 hitting in a bright spot for the Lions' attack.
The Eagles' balanced offensive attack proved too much, as six different players recorded multiple kills. Setter Ashlynn Barnes orchestrated the offense with 23 assists while adding three service aces.
The afternoon match against RV Lindsey Wilson (23-8) showcased Bryan's resilience despite the loss. After winning the first set 22-25, the Lions fell to the Blue Raiders in the second 25-22.
Kelly delivered her best performance of the day with 16 kills.
Leah Lindquist added 10 kills while
Maddison Seabolt contributed eight on .400 hitting percentage. Freshman
Kaci Wade distributed 24 assists, while senior
Maya Gipson added 22 in the losing effort
Lindsey Wilson's Polish standout Ola Wyrzykowska proved unstoppable, hammering 27 kills on 57 swings for a .439 hitting percentage. Her 30.5 points led all players as she added three service aces.
Bryan's struggles this season have been evident in their offensive efficiency. Against Lindsey Wilson, the Lions hit just .199 compared to their opponents' .239. The morning match saw an even wider disparity at .129 versus .340.
The Lions have shown flashes of competitiveness, particularly in the five-set thriller against Lindsey Wilson. However, consistency has eluded this young squad throughout the season.
With the season winding down, Bryan will look to build on the positives from pushing a 23-8 RV Lindsey Wilson team to the brink. Kelly's 16-kill performance and the team's ability to win two sets against quality competition provide some hope as the Lions search for a victory.
Bryan returns to action looking to snap their current skid and finish the season on a positive note. They will host Johnson at home on Tuesday.
