LAKE FOREST, IL – Beloit College faced off against Lake Forest in a hard-fought Midwest Conference volleyball match, ultimately falling in a thrilling five-set contest (25-20, 23-25, 25-23, 12-25, 5-15). Despite the loss, Beloit showed immense resilience and a competitive spirit throughout.

The Buccaneers (2-13, 0-3 MWC) started strong, taking the first set with a score of 25-20. Key players like Selin Tufte (Clarkdale, Ariz.) made an early impact, contributing with kills and blocks. The team displayed efficient attacking, recording a .154 hitting percentage in the opening set.

The second set saw the Buccaneers continue to push the Foresters (3-9, 1-1 MWC), narrowly losing 23-25. Naomi Murphy (Dubuque, Iowa) and Maddisyn Adams (Stockett, MT) were prominent in Beloit's offense, and the team maintained a decent sideout percentage, indicating their ability to convert on serve receive.

The Buccaneers once again showed their grit in the third set, securing a 25-23 victory. This set highlighted Beloit's defensive efforts and their ability to capitalize on Lake Forest's errors. Kierra Rayne Hoover (Albuquerque, New Mexico) and Kyra Suiter-Meyers (Orfordville, Wis.) contributed crucial points, helping Beloit take a 2-1 lead in the match.

However, Lake Forest found another gear in the fourth and fifth sets. Beloit struggled to maintain their offensive rhythm, and Lake Forest's defense intensified, leading to scores of 12-25 and 5-15. Despite the setback, Beloit's players continued to battle for every point.

While the outcome wasn't in Beloit's favor, the team's ability to take the match to five sets against Lake Forest demonstrates their fighting spirit and potential. 

The Buccaneers return home to Flood Arena on Tuesday to host Eureka College. Game time is set for 7 pm.