MILLERSVILLE, Pa. – After Head Coach Smith's successful challenge shifted the tide in the third set, the Marauders battled hard to close the gap, but their comeback effort fell short against the Rams of Shepherd University. Set scores were 25-13, 25-15 and 25-20.
 
Millersville (5-14, 1-5) put together a strong effort with 26 kills, five aces, 23 assists, and 35 digs, but couldn't slow down Shepherd (14-5, 4-3), who posted an impressive .299 hitting percentage. Taylor Welter, Addy Van Oosten, and Sam White powered the Marauders' offense with Kat Dalessio and Trinity Baldwin each contributing 10 assists.
 
Amanda Protzman and Van Oosten helped the Marauders keep things even early in the first set, but the Rams pulled ahead 7-4 after a three-point burst. Welter and Baldwin briefly halted the run, though Shepherd quickly regained control with a dominant 6-0 surge. The Rams maintained their momentum, capitalizing on Millersville errors and key attacks to claim the opening set.
 
The Marauders struggled to find their rhythm early, falling behind 9-2 as Shepherd set the tone. Despite a few Shepherd errors that brought Millersville back within six, the Rams maintained control and continued to dominate the second set.

The Marauders opened the third set strong, with Protzman and White keeping the score close early. Trailing 10-7, key plays from Caroline Halsey and Marin Esch, along with a successful challenge by Head Coach Brian Smith, tied the set at 10. Momentum swung in Millersville's favor as Welter, Sidonia Cecco, and a block from White propelled them to a three-point lead. However, Shepherd responded with a decisive 9-1 run to regain control. Despite late kills from Welter and Esch, the Marauders' comeback effort fell short, sealing the match for the Rams.
 
"I was happy with the energy and effort the team played with tonight," said Smith.
 
Catch the Marauders back in action Saturday, Oct 18 when they host the Raiders from Shippensburg University.