October 16, 2009
Box Score 1 | Box Score 2
St. Charles, MO-The Graceland women's volleyball team fell to #4 Columbia and Dana College in their first two games of the Lindenwood Invitational Tournament.
In their first match, the Jackets, (13-10) were not able to stay with a powerful Cougar lineup, which had clearly earned its high national ranking. With their opponent firing out of the gate, Graceland fell in the first game 11-25. While they put up a valiant defense, the Jackets could not seem to get the offense moving, and that trend continued into a 9-25 game two. In the third game, Graceland attempted a rally, but all hopes of forcing a game four were snuffed out in an eventual 16-25 decision.
"The bottom line is that we were playing a little shorthanded tonight. We went up against the #4 team in the country, and if you aren't in top shape, it is hard to win. Columbia has a good, seasoned international lineup, and we could have played better against them," said Coach Stew McDole.
The second match of the day took place against Dana College. The Vikings were a quality team which gave the Jackets a very hard fight, taking the match in four games. The first game was a 16-25 defeat for GU, who once again could not muster a cohesive attack with their undermanned squad. There was a glimmer of hope in a 25-22 win in game two, and in a razor close 23-25 loss in game three. But, down 2-1, the Jackets were unable to close the deal and lost the final game of the match 15-25.
"We are almost in season restart mode. Starters out, players returning after a month's absense and without the benefit of practice," said Coach McDole. "The tools are there, we are just having to put them together again. Dana is a good team, and they were a worthy opponent."
Graceland will next take on Missouri Baptist on Saturday morning. That game is scheduled 9am. Graceland will take two matches Saturday at Lindenwood. Stay tuned to the Graceland Athletics website for stats, summary and quotes from the action in St. Charles.
For More Information on Graceland University Athletics Contact:
Matt Shelton, Sports Information Director
(641) 784-5318
mshelton@graceland.edu
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