COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Stephens College volleyball team returned home after a three-week road stretch, aiming for an upset against Central Methodist University (ranked number 19 in the NAIA). Despite a strong showing in the final two sets, the Stars fell in straight sets (9-25, 20-25, 23-25).

The Stars struggled to find their rhythm early, dropping the first set 25-9. However, after adjustments by head coach Maggie Hans, Stephens came out with renewed energy in the second set.

Sophomore Madison Threlkeld led the charge with seven kills and no errors, while junior libero Jatnna Peña-Perez anchored the defense with 14 digs, keeping the Stars within striking distance. Despite their efforts, Central Methodist claimed the second set 25-20.

In the third set, Stephens held an early lead and battled to level the score midway through the set. However, the Eagles edged out a hard-fought 25-23 victory to close out the match.

Though the loss moved the Stars to 2-10 on the season, their impressive performance in the final two sets made Central Methodist work for every point.

Stephens will enjoy a week-long break before returning home on Saturday, Sept. 21, for the Stephens College Tri-Match, facing Bethany College at 3 p.m. and Culver-Stockton College at 7 p.m.