WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL

The Taylor University women’s volleyball defeated Huntington University on Saturday in four sets (25-22, 25-14, 19-25, 25-13).  
 
The Foresters (13-12, 5-8) took an early 7-4 lead in a back and forth opening set. Tied at 22, the Trojans scored the final three points to win the opener. Taylor (9-16, 4-9) took the second set but a shorthanded HU squad with their backs against the wall came out fighting in the third set. Leading 20-19 late in the third, Nigella Reck toed the service line and helped lead HU to 5 straight points to win the third set. Taylor held a slim 12-10 lead in the fourth set after kills from Trevyn Terry and Lauryn Hardy gave HU the momentum. The Trojans scored the nine straight points to regain control of the match and finish off the Foresters with a 25-13 fourth set win.  
 
Reck and Makailah Thompson teamed up to handle the setting duties. Thompson dished out 16 assists and Reck handed out 12. Layla Meyer had 23 digs and Oliva Krahn defended 16 Taylor attacks. The Foresters offense was led by Kortney Grimms nine kills, with Leah Carter recording seven kills on the day.  
 
“I was proud of Makailah Thompson and Nigella Reck for stepping into the setter’s role today,” said Forester coach Kelsey Herber. “Their leadership and play were valuable for us today, and I thought they executed well.” 
 
The Foresters will look to end a three-game skid on Wednesday when they host 25th ranked Marian in Platt Arena. The first serve is set for 7:00 p.m.