Western Oregon Journal

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Western couldn't hold on to the lead and the match in a GNAC contest against Humboldt State on Saturday, Oct. 22 in New PE.

The Wolves led 12-10 in the fifth game, but could only win one point of the final six scored in the loss. The overall score was 30-22, 26-30, 25-30, 30-27, and 13-15.

The final game was indicative of the back-and-forth nature of the entire contest. The teams traded the lead throughout each game, and the final game alone featured four lead changes and seven ties with neither squad willing to back down.

Head Coach Joe Houck was philosophical about the loss.

"These two teams have played 10 games now, and each has won five," coach Houck explained. "The point differential is miniscule, and it just comes down to scoring the last point of the match each time. It was kind of fitting they stole this one after we were able to sneak out with a win at their place."

Coach Houck also was pleased with his team's effort, despite the outcome.

"We totaled out at over 100 digs, and I was really happy with our pursuit on out-of-system plays offensively," coach Houck explained.

Freshman outside hitter Katrina Johnson led the Wolves with 27 kills-her best as a collegian. Senior setter Shawn Paulino had her typical steady game with 59 assists and 21 digs, while sophomore libero Claire Carpenter chipped in 31 digs. The Wolves are still adjusting to being without the services of junior outside hitter Mandy Veley, who missed her third consecutive match due to a leg injury. Veley was an honorable mention All-GNAC selection last year.

"Mandy is done for the season, and we have missed her productivity," said coach Houck.

The loss of Veley may help the long-term development of this young squad, however, which features six freshmen and three sophomores.

"It will be a great chance for the younger gals to step up the way we saw Katrina Johnson ring up 27 kills this weekend," coach Houck explained. "We will also need to extend our attention spans because rallies will be longer!"

The loss dropped the Wolves' record to 8-12 overall and 6-6 in the GNAC.

Western's next two matches are both at home. On Thursday, Oct. 27, the Wolves square off against Alaska Anchorage at 7 p.m. The Wolves face Alaska Fairbanks on Saturday, Oct. 29, also at 7 p.m.

Coach Houck expects two more close contests based on previous matches with each squad.

"These are two teams we went five games with in the first go-round, and I am sure there will be great play on all accounts," coach Houck said. "[The Alaska schools] are working hard to close the season with a positive taste, and we are pretty hungry as well!"

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