Syracuse, N.Y. — Chicago State volleyball put together one of its most competitive performances of the season, showing strong offensive balance and grit in a three-set battle at Le Moyne College on Saturday afternoon. The Cougars pushed the Dolphins in each frame before ultimately falling 25-18, 25-22, 29-27.
Chicago State's attack was paced by
Nayella George, who recorded a team-high 15 kills while hitting over .200 and adding four digs and a block assist.
Leah Linares Castro and
Zeynep Ertam provided steady support with 10 and nine kills respectively, combining for over 20 points on the day. Ertam also led the Cougars with 12 assists and added six digs in a strong all-around effort.
Defensively,
Eliza Covrig anchored the back row with a team-best 10 digs, while
Vasiliki Dagre and
Nia Cummings contributed at the net, helping Chicago State register six total team blocks.
After dropping the opening set, Chicago State came out energized in the second, trading points throughout and pulling within two late before Le Moyne was able to edge ahead. The Cougars continued their strong play in the third, forcing extra points and fighting off multiple set points before falling 29-27 in the finale.
Chicago State returns home next weekend to host its next NEC matchup at the Jacoby Dickens Center.
