SILVER CITY, NM — Western New Mexico University (8-10, 3-5 Lone Star) fell to West Texas A&M University (14-4, 6-1 Lone Star) in straight sets on Thursday at Drag's Court, with scores of 21-25, 9-25, 18-25. Despite the loss, the Mustangs recorded four solo blocks in the match.

Western New Mexico opened the first set with a point from an attack error, establishing an early presence. The team responded effectively to the Lady Buffs' initial lead, with Jayden Hughes (High Rolls, NM/Cloudcroft High School) and Kaitlyn Salgado contributing crucial kills to maintain a competitive scoreline. A series of blocks by Hailey Meeks and Brynlee Barris added defensive strength, allowing the Mustangs to draw even at 10-10. The momentum shifted mid-set as Western New Mexico capitalized on multiple attack errors by the opposition, taking a brief 13-10 lead. Contributions from Daphne Posthumus (Lelystad, Netherlands/CCNV Harderwijk (Netherlands)) and Barris kept the set tightly contested. However, West Texas A&M regained momentum and seized control with a late push, despite Hughes' efforts to close the gap. The set concluded with West Texas A&M securing a 25-21 victory, as Western New Mexico's rally was stymied by a series of successful plays from their opponents.

The second set began with Western New Mexico struggling to maintain momentum against West Texas A&M. After an initial exchange of points, the Mustangs found themselves on the back foot as the Lady Buffs capitalized on several errors to extend their lead. Key contributions from Jayla McDuffie, who assisted on a kill by Meeks, and Barris, who blocked an attack, highlighted the Mustangs' efforts to stay competitive. Despite their attempts to rally, West Texas A&M continued to widen the gap, benefiting from a series of attack errors and effective blocking. Isabella Brewer managed to secure a couple of points with kills, but the Lady Buffs maintained control, closing the set with a decisive service ace to capture a 25-9 victory and extend their match lead.

In the third set, the Mustangs worked to maintain momentum with Hughes and Posthumus delivering key kills early, keeping the score tight against the Lady Buffs. Despite a few service and attack errors, Western New Mexico managed to stay in the contest with contributions from Barris and Carley Deck (Tucson, AZ/Tanque Verde High School), each securing points through effective playmaking. However, West Texas A&M capitalized on consistent performances, particularly from Emma Becker, who delivered multiple kills to extend their lead. Western New Mexico mounted a late rally with a series of points to narrow the gap, but the Lady Buffs ultimately closed the set at 25-18.

Hughes led the team with six kills and added six digs, contributing significantly on both offense and defense. Barris recorded seven kills and was strong at the net with two total blocks. Posthumus collected six kills and registered one block, offering a balanced performance. Meeks made an impact on defense with three total blocks, showcasing her abilities at the net. 

Emma Becker led the Lady Buffs with 15 kills, resulting in a team-high 16 points over three sets. Taytum Stow was instrumental at the net, accumulating six solo blocks and contributing 12 points. Bromli Watson facilitated the attack with 29 assists while adding 10 digs, providing stability on defense.

Up next for the Mustangs is a matchup against Eastern New Mexico on October 18 at noon. The game will take place at Drag's Court in Silver City, NM.
 

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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).