SAN ANTONIO--Eastern Volleyball split day one of the Trinity University Invitational, topping University of Redlands 3-1, but falling to No. 21 Trinity University in three sets.

The Eagles started the day with a 25-15, 22-25, 25-18, 25-22 win over the Redlands Bulldogs, but fell 26-24, 25-17, 25-18 to Trinity.

The Eagles are now 23-3 this season.

Freshman Stephanie Elechko struck 13 kills in each match, hitting .393 in match one and .333 against Trinity. "Stephanie played really well," head coach Mark Birtwistle said, "She's tall and a good jumper. Other teams have a hard time matching her energy level."

Fellow first year Rylie Haas collected 23 digs in the first match and 26 in the second. Coach Birtwistle said that Haas did a great job combining her talent with hard work.

Against Trinity, the Eagles led 19-14 in the first set and had set-point at 24-21. Trinity pulled within one point on a service ace that Eastern believed was out. Trinity then tied the game and took the first set with three attack errors by the Eagles.

The Eagles hit their lowest percentage of the season, finishing with a .122 mark. Trinity had 14 team blocks against the Eagles attack. Eastern finished with one team block.

Over Friday's two matches, Eastern's Kearby Benak added 21 kills and Lauren Sproles added 17.

Eastern is back at it Saturday morning with a 10 a.m. (CDT) match against Southwestern University followed by a 12:30 p.m. (CDT) match against Springfield College.

Match One Box

Match Two Box