SWANNANOA, N.C.— The Montreat College volleyball team faced off against the visiting Truett McConnell University Bears in an Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) matchup Tuesday evening, suffering a 3-0 defeat with set scores of 25-17, 25-10 and 25-23. Following the loss, the Cavaliers dropped to 0-16 (0-16 AAC) while TMU improved to 12-18 (5-11 AAC).
 
The match began with the Bears taking a quick 3-0 lead, capitalizing off a pair of errors. Montreat responded with three straight points of its own after a service ace from Brittany Jack and a kill by Elizabeth Harrington. However, Truett McConnell quickly regained control with a series of successful attacks and service aces, extending its lead out to 9-4.
 
With help from kills by Josie Leatherman and Sarah Alderman, the Cavs were able to stay within reach of the Bears throughout the frame. Following a timeout called by the Cavaliers late in the set, Montreat mounted another 3-0 run with the help of another ace, this time by Allie Anderson. Despite late life from the home side, the visitors were able to maintain their advantage, finishing the set on top at 25-17.
 
Truett McConnell initiated the second set with a commanding start, building an early 3-0 lead once again. The Cavaliers answered with a block by Harrington and Leatherman to narrow the gap. However, TMU maintained the momentum, expanding the advantage to 16-5 midway through the frame.
 
Despite some solid play from the Cavs during the middle stages of the set, including kills from Ella Rose Livingston, Leatherman and Harrington, the Bears continued to build their lead. Ultimately, the away side closed out the set on an 8-2 run, taking the frame 25-10.
 
The two teams opened the third set trading points back and forth, but the Cavaliers built a solid lead midway through the frame. Capping off a 4-0 spurt with a kill from Harrington and service ace from Cizzie Griffin, the hosts managed to take a 12-9 lead.
 
As the set progressed, Montreat found consistency with Harrington and Leatherman frequently finding the floor, aided by assists from Griffin. Truett McConnell matched the Cavs' efforts, though, as both squads exchanged points and remained close heading into the latter stages.
 
In a tense finale, Montreat continued to vie for control, with Genesis Hernandez and Harrington contributing crucial points. Nevertheless, TMU capitalized on a late 3-0 run to seize set three, 25-23, as well as the contest.
 
On the night, the Bears held the advantage in kills (43-25), assists (38-24), hitting percentage (.300 to .141), digs (44-38) and service aces (7-4). The Cavaliers were able to edge out the visiting team on blocks (3-2).
 
Harrington led Montreat with 10 kills and added one block assist, contributing significantly to the team's efforts. Leatherman followed closely with nine kills and two block assists, maintaining a .350 hitting percentage. Anderson was active on defense, recording nine digs across three sets and adding two service aces. Griffin facilitated the offense with 12 assists and contributed eight digs defensively.

"The game came down to energy, heart and who wanted it more," said head coach Cristina Viera. "We've talked all season about intensity and accountability, and that's what will carry us through these last three games. We still have the chance to finish strong and show the growth we've built day by day."
 
Looking ahead, Montreat faces Columbia College on the road this Friday, Oct. 31. The match is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. in Columbia, S.C.