AUGUSTA, Ga. - The Lander Bearcats (15-4, 3-1 PBC) put up a fight against the Augusta Jaguars (14-5, 2-3 PBC), going toe-to-toe through five intense sets before ultimately falling 3-2 (25-22, 25-27, 25-21, 24-26, 6-15).
How it Happened
Set 1: Lander claimed the first set 25-22, fueled by Katie Miller's sharp kills and Blondie Penaflor's early aces. Miller (7) and Madde Blake (4) led the attack, while Penaflor and Olivia Dow held strong on defense, blocking several of Augusta's attempts. Despite Augusta's late push, The Bearcats edged past the Jaguars 25-22, capitalizing on their efficient .170 hitting percentage compared to Augusta's .127.
Set 2: In a thrilling second set, Augusta responded, pushing Lander into extra points. The Bearcats' offense remained solid with 13 kills, but a few critical errors allowed Augusta to sneak away with a narrow 27-25 win.
Set 3: The Bearcats regained momentum in the third set, finding their rhythm with strong blocks. Lander's .229 hitting efficiency gave them control of the set, securing a 25-21 win to take a 2-1 lead. With eight blocks on the match, Penaflor's commanding presence at the net helped decelerate Augusta's offense.
Set 4: In the fourth set, Augusta returned with renewed energy. Lander fought off multiple set points, staying close throughout, but Augusta clinched it 26-24, sending the match to a fifth set.
Set 5: The Jaguars jumped out quickly in the deciding set, and Lander struggled to find its footing as Augusta pulled away to a 15-6 finish. Despite the loss, Lander's efforts, including 54 kills and out-blocking the Jaguars 13-11, demonstrated their fighting spirit. With Penaflor's and Miller's blocks, their front-line defense stood strong even as Augusta surged.
Key Performances
- Blondie Penaflor recorded eight blocks and two aces in the match
- Katie Miller recorded 22 kills, 26 digs, five blocks, and two aces
- Lauren Dow's 41 assists kept the Bearcats offense flowing
- Emmi Cheek recorded 21 digs and seven assists
- Madde Blake led the team with three aces while also recording 15 kills
UP NEXT
The Bearcats will travel to Milledgeville, Ga., to face the Bobcats of Georgia College and State University on Saturday, Nov. 2, starting at 3 p.m.
