TACOMA, Wash. – Linfield volleyball fell in three sets Saturday night, losing 25-14, 25-12, 25-19 to the Lutes of Pacific Lutheran University in Olson Gymnasium.
 
Pacific Lutheran (3-7, 2-0 Northwest Conference) established itself early on, leading Linfield (4-5, 0-2) by as many as 12 points in the opening set and keeping pace through the second.
 
The Wildcats managed to trade blows early in the third frame before the Lutes broke open an 11-point lead. Although Linfield drew within four points at 23-19, back-to-back Linfield attack errors gave PLU the win.
 
Freshman Nora Myre led Linfield with seven points off seven kills. Araeya Watanabe added 6.5 points and six digs while Paige Pa'aluhi led the defensive effort with nine digs and a block.
 
Ryli Kalahiki led all players in service aces with three while adding eight digs.
 
On the night, Linfield totaled five aces and three blocks.
 
The Lutes were led in scoring with 10 points from Elle Thomas. Two-time reigning NWC Defensive Player of the Year Halle Hetzler totaled 22 digs.
 
NEXT
Linfield will enjoy the benefit of the home court regularly over the next few weeks, with seven of their next eight matches set for Ted Wilson Gymnasium.
 
The Wildcats host the Lewis and Clark Pioneers (5-5, 0-2 NWC) on Friday at 7 p.m. Fans attending Friday's match will receive a free CatZone Crew T-shirt. The following night, the Willamette Bearcats (5-4, 0-2 NWC) visit McMinnville with the match set for 6 o'clock. The Alpha Phi sorority is hosting a "Red Out" night to raise awareness and funds for women's heart health.  Read Full Article