Box Score LITTLE ROCK, Ark.?The UALR volleyball team lost their opening home and conference match to the University of Denver 3-0 (27-30, 28-30, 22-30) Friday at the Jack Stephens Center. The Trojans hadn't lost their opening conference match since 2003.
“I thought we played hard, but we didn't adjust to the game situation,” said head coach Van Compton. “This is a sign of our youth. We have six freshmen on our squad this season. We are also trying to fill the void of Ana (Carolina Buccini) after her ACL injury."
Amila Barakovic recorded her tenth double-double of the season with team highs of 14 kills and 15 digs.
Ivanka Davidova knocked down nine kills and recorded six block assists.
Courtney Hays contributed 12 digs for the Trojans.
For Denver, three Pioneers recorded double-digit kills with Lisa Hunter leading the team with 14.
Holly Benson led Denver in digs with 13.
In game one, the Trojans recorded a .077 attack percentage recording 11 kills but committing eight errors.
UALR took the early 2-0 lead on Denver errors. The Trojans sustained the lead until a kill by Benson tied the score at seven.
With the score 10-8, the Pioneers scored eight consecutive points to broaden their advantage.
UALR pushed points to come within two on a kill by Anita Bucur, but Denver held on for the game one victory 30-27.
In game two, the Trojans again took an early lead expanding their points to as many as six.
Denver pushed points and tied the score at 27 with a kill by Kerry Porter.
After a service ace and attack error tied the score at 28, the Pioneers won the game on kill by Porter and an ace by Hunter.
In game three, Denver took the early lead. The Trojans rallied toward the end scoring as many as three consecutive points.
The Pioneer won the match on a final kill by Kim Muller.
UALR continues conference action at home on Sunday, when the Trojans take on North Texas. Match is set to begin at 1 p.m. at the Jack Stephens Center.
