La Verne, CA - The University of La Verne took on UC Santa Cruz in this afternoon's match-up. The Leopards looked to beat the nationally-ranked Banana Slugs at The Tents. LA Verne was looking to seal a top-four seed in the SCIAC in time for playoffs.
The first set was a battle, with both teams going neck for neck, with the Leopards winning 25-21. Going into the second set, the Leopards rallied behind the energy of their bench and sealed a well-fought set 25-17. The Banana Slugs turned it around in the third set, giving the Leopards no room to come back, winning the set 15-25. The fourth set was a battle as the Leopards tried to finish the match. The Banana Slugs were clawing at a chance to stay alive. In a tough battle, the Banana Slugs came out on top 23-25. In the final set, both teams rallied behind their supportive crowds, wearing pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness. The Banana Slugs made great plays at the end, besting the Leopards 15-12.
Mya Ray led the Leopards with 14 kills, and Madison Smith had a season-high 24 digs.
The University of La Verne's next home match will be senior night vs. Cal Lutheran on October 28th at 7:00 pm at the Tents.