SAN ANTONIO – University of the Incarnate Word falls to McNeese State University 3-2. (25-21, 25-21, 13-15, 20-25, 11-15) Bethany Clapp was recognized prior to the game for reaching 1,000 career kills.
 
Allison Plami led the Cardinal offense with 11 kills, Clapp followed closely behind registering nine on the match. Chase Jackson, Jacqueline Arrington and Annamarie Alvarez all tallied eight kills. Natalie Martin set up the Cardinal offense with 23 total assists. Alvarez also led UIW at the service line with three service aces. Clapp led the Cardinal defense with 20 total digs.
 
"We had such a good start, but it really came down to lack of execution and being high error in crucial moments," said Clapp. "As we move into the second round of conference, this loss should fuel us to prove ourselves."
 
This was a close Southland Conference matchup, both teams coming in being 3-3 in conference play. This match consisted of 13 tied scores and four lead changes.
 
UIW started off strong securing the first two sets against McNeese. In set one, Palmi and Alvarez led the Cardinals offense with four kills each. Clapp had seven digs against the tough Cowgirl offense. In the second set, the Cardinal offense really came alive. Jackson, Clapp, Palmi, Alvarez and Nailah Landon all registered a kill in this set. Clapp again led the defense with four digs to keep the Cardinals ahead.
 
McNeese answered back and took the final three set of the match.
 
"There's a lesson in a loss. I am glad to see the girls compete, however we came up short," said head coach Samantha Dabbs Thomas. "The second half of conference play starts now, and we know what we have to work on."
 
UIW face McNeese again next Saturday, October 23 at 1 p.m.  
 
UP NEXT
The Cardinals begin the second half of Southland Conference play when they travel to Houston for a rematch against the Huskies of Houston Baptist University. The match is set for Thursday, October 21 at 6:30 p.m.
 
FOLLOW ALONG
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on Twitter @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook. 
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