CANYON, Texas – West Texas A&M's
Taytum Stow broke the program's all-time career mark in total blocks but the #14 Lady Buffs snapped an 11-match win streak on Saturday afternoon as they fell to the rival Angelo State Rambelles (24-26, 25-22, 17-25, 20-25) in Lone Star Conference action at the Junell Center in San Angelo, Texas.
West Texas A&M began the first set with a balanced attack, with
Parker Gladhill and
Kaycee Cavanaugh each contributing early kills to keep the score tight. Despite some errors, they managed to level the score at 18-18, highlighted by
Currie Marusak's impactful kills and
Bromli Watson's service ace. Momentum shifted multiple times as West Texas A&M tied the score again at 20-20 with
Emma Becker and
Taytum Stow combining for a crucial block. The team pushed ahead to 24-23 with a decisive play by Stow, but Angelo State responded and ultimately took the set 26-24 after capitalizing on a late attack error.
West Texas A&M began the second set with a focus on regaining momentum after trailing 3-0. The team responded with a kill by Cavanaugh and a subsequent kill by Becker, leveling the score at 3-3. The set remained closely contested, with West Texas A&M edging ahead 7-6 following a service ace by Stow and a kill from Marusak. As the set progressed, the teams traded points, maintaining a narrow margin. West Texas A&M managed to break a 17-19 deficit with a kill by Cavanaugh and a block by Cavanaugh and
Sharlotte McClintock, tying the score at 19-19. The visitors capitalized on Angelo State's errors, allowing West Texas A&M to pull away in the latter stages. Stow delivered two crucial kills, sealing the set with a 25-22 victory.
West Texas A&M started the third set with an early point from an attack error by Angelo State's Madi Parrish. Cavanaugh and Stow both contributed with kills to keep the visiting team within reach, but Angelo State's Demi Carter and Parrish frequently responded, helping their team to maintain a lead. Despite strong efforts from Cavanaugh and Becker, who each added points through effective kills, Angelo State continued to extend their advantage. Angelo State capitalized on several attack errors by West Texas A&M, increasing their margin. The set concluded with a decisive run by Angelo State, as Parrish's consistent scoring and a final kill from Carter sealed the 25-17 set win for the home team.
West Texas A&M entered the fourth set looking to regain momentum. Early in the set, Cavanaugh delivered a kill to equalize the score at 1-1. However, Angelo State then went on a scoring run, extending their lead to 6-1 with a combination of service aces and kills. West Texas A&M attempted to mount a comeback with Marusak and Becker contributing kills. Despite these efforts, Angelo State maintained their advantage, with Parrish and Carter scoring consistently to widen the gap to 18-11. In the final stretch, West Texas A&M rallied with a series of points, including a service ace and a block by Stow and Becker, cutting the deficit to 23-19. Ultimately, Angelo State secured the set 25-20, wrapping up the match.
Marusak recorded 15 digs and added 12 kills, contributing significantly to the defensive and offensive efforts. Cavanaugh led the team with 16 kills and 17 points, showcasing her ability to finish plays effectively. Stow registered a .450 hitting percentage with 10 kills on 20 attempts, while also leading the team with six total blocks, adding a defensive edge.
Casey Loewer assisted on 25 occasions and collected 14 digs, playing a key role in both setting and defense.
Parrish led Angelo State with 21 kills, four service aces, and 27.0 points over four sets, showcasing her impact on both offense and service. Carter contributed significantly with 20 kills on a .349 hitting percentage and 20.5 total points, providing a strong offensive presence. Gabi Ashcraft excelled in setting, recording 31 assists and achieving a 1.000 hitting percentage, enhancing the team's playmaking capabilities. Ireland Ferguson also made her mark defensively, leading the team with 16 digs, anchoring the backline effectively.
WT returns to the WTAMU Fieldhouse "The Box" on Friday night as they welcome the Hilltoppers of St. Edward's for LSC action beginning at 6:00 p.m. in Canyon.
