Central suffers conference volleyball setback

DUBUQUE — Coming out firing with a victory in the first set, the Central College volleyball team could not sustain the momentum in a 20-25, 25-17, 25-16, 25-19 loss Saturday afternoon at Loras College in the American Rivers Conference finale.

Central ends its conference slate with a 2-6 mark (15-11 overall). The Duhawks are 6-1 in league matches (19-7 overall) with one conference contest remaining.

“Loras is a much more experienced team,” coach Jeanne Czipri said. “I think we battled through some challenging moments well.”

The Dutch were coming off a frustrating loss against the University of Dubuque Friday.

“We bounced back from last night and played with a lot of fight and heart,” Czipri said. “We made some adjustments mid-match and were happy to see them executed pretty well.”

Outside hitter Krissa Larson (sophomore, Waverly, Waverly-Shell Rock HS) led the team with 15 kills and right side hitter Erin Dilger (senior, Tinley Park, Ill., Lincoln Way North HS) had 10.

“Krissa and Erin really attacked with something to prove today,” Czipri said.

Setter Alyssa Lewton (sophomore, Ankeny, Centennial HS) served up four aces and was credited with a team-high 16 digs.

Central will celebrate Senior Night on Tuesday against Graceland University. The varsity match will start at 7:30 p.m. inside P.H. Kuyper Gymnasium.