PORTALES, N.M. – The Eastern New Mexico volleyball team outlasted Midwestern State in a five-set match (25-19, 25-21, 15-25, 15-25, 19-17) as the Hounds were able to capture their first Lone Star Conference victory.

The match saw 28 ties and 28 lead changes but it was the Hounds who prevailed after tallying seven service aces and nine blocks as a squad. Senior Lauren Bresnahan turned in a stellar performance, finishing with a double-double with 13 kills and ten digs.

The Hounds jumped out to an early 10-6 lead in the first frame capped off by a pair of aces from junior Jasmine Gannon. MSU was able to pull within a couple points as they trailed 19-21 before the Hounds scored four unanswered points to take the set 25-19.

ENMU took over in the second set and seemed to be in control as the held a comfortable 20-12 lead. The Mustangs mounted a late comeback before a kill from freshman Gracelyn Stubbs closed out the frame as the Hounds won with a 25-21 final.

The Mustangs were able to take the third and fourth set and pushed the game to a final fifth frame as the Hounds struggled to maintain their momentum.
The final frame remained extremely competitive with both squads having chances to take the game.

The Mustangs appeared to have taken the game after leading 15-13 before a challenge by Interim Head Coach Katie Burnett overturned the call on the court, changing the score to 14-14. The teams traded points to run the score to 18-17 in favor of ENMU before Bresnahan sent a powerful serve down the sideline, as the Hound took the final set following the ace.

Gannon led the way defensively with 14 kills and was also able to record eight kills and a pair of service aces. Freshman Qitana Sapiga did a fantastic job setting up her attacking players and finished with a career-high 24 assists.

The Hounds pack their bags next week as they travel to Angelo State Friday, Oct. 11 before taking on Lubbock Christian the following day.