NACOGDOCHES, TX – The University of the Incarnate Word volleyball team earned a thrilling 3-2 road victory over Stephen F. Austin on Saturday afternoon at Shelton Gym, handing the Ladyjacks their first Southland Conference loss of the season. 

Set 1: UIW 25 (1), SFA 20 (0)       

UIW controlled much of the opening set, jumping out to a seven-point lead early in the frame. Stephen F. Austin trimmed the deficit to three late, but the Red and Black closed strong, scoring the final three points to take the set. Kitana Tu'ufuli led all players with six kills, while Kyla Malone anchored the defense with a set-high 12 digs. 

Set 2: UIW 26 (2), SFA 24 (0)      

The Cardinals and Ladyjacks traded points throughout the second set, with neither team leading by more than four at any point. SFA grabbed its first lead at 18-17, but UIW quickly responded, regaining control and holding on to take the frame — building a commanding 2-0 lead in the match. 

Set 3: UIW 16 (2), SFA 25 (1)      

The home-standing Ladyjacks controlled set three from start to finish, never trailing on their way to their first set win of the afternoon. 

Set 4: UIW 18 (2), SFA 25 (2)      

Much like the third, the Ladyjacks never trailed in the fourth set, forcing a decisive fifth frame. 

Set 5: UIW 19 (3), SFA 17 (2)      

After SFA opened the fifth frame with a 2-1 lead, the Cardinals regained control and never looked back. UIW built an 8-4 advantage before fending off a late Ladyjack push to set up match point at 14-12. It took five match points, but the Cardinals ultimately sealed the set and the match on an SFA attack error — handing the Ladyjacks their first conference loss of the season. 

Kitana Tu'ufuli led the way for the Cardinals with a double-double, posting a match-high 20 kills to go along with 13 digs. Calissa Allison notched her 15th double-double of the season, recording a personal and match-best 55 assists while adding 23 digs. Kyla Malone turned in a stellar all-around performance with 18 kills and a team-high 23 digs, while Sofia Grimm anchored the front line with a team-leading four blocks. 

UIW returns to the McDermott Center on Wednesday, Oct. 22, to host Southeastern Louisiana. First serve is set for 1 p.m. 

FOLLOW ALONG    
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on X @UIWAthletics, and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW athletics.    
Follow the team on X @UIWVolleyball and Instagram @uiw_volleyball. 

--UIW CARDINALS--