North Michigan News

The Northern Michigan University volleyball team faced Davenport in Grand Rapids on October 28, resulting in a four-set defeat. Despite strong performances from Evynn Layshock and Jacqueline Smith, who each recorded 19 kills, NMU was unable to secure a victory.

The match was closely contested, with Davenport edging out NMU in the first two sets. The opening set saw Davenport clinch a 27-25 win after extra points were required. They continued their narrow success with a 25-22 victory in the second set. NMU responded by winning the third set 25-23 but could not maintain momentum as Davenport took the fourth set decisively at 25-18.

NMU's overall hitting percentage was .189 compared to Davenport's .220. This loss brought NMU's record to 8-16 overall and 5-8 within their conference.

During the first set, NMU capitalized on early errors by Davenport to take an initial lead. However, Davenport rallied back to win the set after several successful service aces tied up the score and eventually led them to victory.

In the second set, intense rallies defined early exchanges as both teams fought for dominance. Though NMU showcased strategic plays involving Allie Barlow and Meghan Meyer, they ultimately fell short again as Davenport pulled ahead after a tie at nine points apiece.

The third set saw Northern recover from an initial six-point deficit thanks to key plays from Angelina Negron that tied up the score mid-set. Strong net pressure helped them secure their sole set win of the match.

Tensions remained high in the fourth set as teams exchanged points initially before Davenport managed to build a significant lead through cross-court kills and defensive plays that kept NMU at bay until they closed out with another win.

Looking ahead, NMU is scheduled for a home game against Michigan Tech on Halloween night at 6:30 p.m., hoping for better fortunes following this recent loss.