SAN ANGELO, Texas – The Eastern New Mexico volleyball team struggled defensively in their match against Angelo State as it fell in straight sets (25-15, 25-7, 25-17) Friday night inside Stephens Arena.

The Hounds were held to just 25 total kills on the night and limited to a .106 team attacking percentage in the first two frames. Eastern did turn in an efficient third set but the Rams finished the match with a scorching .519 hitting percentage as they dropped the Hounds to 3-13 overall and a 1-7 mark in Lone Star Conference play.

Senior Sarah Tuioti-Mariner registered the match's first point following a kill set up by setter Rae Sapiga. The frame remained competitive through the midway point tied at 7-7 before the home team went on an 8-1 run to blow the game open before securing the set with a 25-15 final.

The Rams took control in the second set and were able to jump out to an early 14-2 lead as the Hounds never recovered. ENMU recorded just five kills in the middle frame on 22 total attacks.

The Hounds offensive attack fared better in the final frame as they finished with a game-high 13 kills and a .303 hitting percentage. Eastern held a 7-6 advantage early capped off by a kill from outside hitter Lauren Bresnahan but the rams rattled off five of the last six points as they cruised to 25-17 victory.

Tuioti-Mariner and junior Jasmine Gannon tallied a team-high five kills apiece while Rae Sapiga led the squad with 10 assists. Defensively, Tuioti-Mariner, Rae Sapiga and freshman Qitana Sapiga contributed equally and totaled four digs.

The Hounds are back in action Saturday afternoon when they take the court against Lubbock Christian at 1 p.m. inside Rip Griffin Stadium.