ST. LOUIS—Missouri Baptist opened their home season Tuesday, September 19. They would fall to the University of Illinois-Springfield in five sets (22-25, 25-22, 20-25, 25-16, 10-15).

The first set was a neck-and-neck matchup. A Spartan error resulted in the Prairie Stars taking the lead, and after multiple kills, they took the set. The second set was nearly identical to the first, except this time, it was in MBU's favor.

The game of back-and-forth continued as UIS claimed the third set, while Missouri Baptist took the fourth. It was up to a tiebreaking fifth set to see who would take the match.

The Spartans hit the court ready for a battle. Unfortunately, the Prairie Stars had just a bit more momentum, as they quickly took the lead. A kill from Alli Splitt finished the match, resulting in a loss for MBU.

While things may not have gone the Spartans way, the squad still had quite a performance. Marion Couraud led the Spartans with 22 kills and two service aces. Libero Rachel Luebbers also had a solid night, leading the Spartans with 22 digs, and contributing two service aces, as well.

The defeat snapped Missouri Baptist's nine-match winning streak and setting their season record at 15-3.

The Spartans look to get back on top Friday, September 22 at 7 pm, facing off against fellow AMC team Freed-Hardeman.