Salukis Battle But Fall to Arkansas State in Razorback Invitational
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Teh Southern illinois University Salukis demonstrated resilience in a hard-fought match but ultimately fell to Arkansas State 29-27 in a tightly contested battle Friday at the Razorback Invitational. The loss marks the fourth consecutive defeat for Southern Illinois, but head Coach Brittany Harry saw positive growth from her team.
The match was a back-and-forth affair, with Arkansas State securing a narrow 24-20 lead in the first set before the Salukis rallied, scoring five consecutive points to force a win-by-two situation. Arkansas state ultimately prevailed 29-27.
Outside hitter Abby Sulish led the Saluki offense with 17 kills, earning praise from Harry. “AB had a really nice bounce back match tonight, leading us with 17 kills,” Harry said. “She took some really gutsy swings that paid off for us.”
Arkansas State dominated the second set, never trailing. Southern Illinois responded in the third, playing its most efficient set of the night and winning with a decisive block from She Swansiger.
Defensively, Jillian Shaneyfelt anchored the Salukis with 21 digs, providing numerous second-chance opportunities for the offense. “I thought Jilly had a nice night of defense to give us a lot of second-chance opportunities in transition,” Harry noted.
Arkansas State regained momentum in the fourth set, hitting .250 and never relinquishing the lead to secure the win.
Despite the loss, Harry remained optimistic. “Arkansas State is a really good team, and I think our team showed a lot of growth from last night’s match with Arkansas in terms of manufacturing points.”
Southern Illinois will conclude play at the Razorback Invitational against North Dakota State on Saturday at 11 a.m.
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