MEMPHIS, Tenn.—Playing their fourth match in a span of about 29 hours, the Bellarmine University volleyball team perhaps simply ran out of gas in dropping a heartbreaking 5-set match (18-25, 19-25, 25-22, 27-25, 14-16) to the host Christian Brothers Buccaneers on Saturday evening in Canale Arena.

Fatigue seemed to play a role from the outset as the Knights dropped the opening two sets while making multiple mental errors.  "We talked about toughening up and not losing the game between our ears," said Bellarmine Coach Jenni Grzebin, "and they stepped up."

Did they ever. 

The Knights dug in and made an impressive comeback, and when Bellarmine captured the dramatic set 4 by the score of 27-25, it appeared the Knights had momentum on their side heading into the decisive fifth.

Indeed, Bellarmine looked to be in control with a 12-9 lead in the fifth, but the host Marauders were able to rally for three straight points to knot the score.  A Margaret Horihan kill put Bellarmine back up by a point, but CBU took the next two to take them to match point at 14-13.  Another Horihan kill breathed new life into the Knights, but Christian Brothers scored the next two to eke out the victory.

"We fought so hard," Grzebin said. "Our inexperience showed a bit in the fifth set when it came to finishing, but I loved the chemistry and determination I saw from top to bottom. It was a positive step for the program despite the loss."

Horihan and Aurryella Mason led the Knights with 17 kills apiece. Defensively, the Knights came up with 97 digs in the match, led by Jordyn Kuchenbrod with 31. "I was really pleased with the way Jordyn played in her first collegiate action this weekend," Grzebin said. "She was a rock for us defensively. I love her discipline and competitiveness."

Two Knights recorded double-doubles. Mason came up with 13 digs to go with her 17 kills, and Allie Muha had 45 assists and 15 digs.

Christian Brothers was led by Alexis Gillis, who led all hitters with 23 kills. Buccaneer setter Jessica Reber also turned in a good match with 56 assists and five service aces.

Bellarmine falls to 2-2 on the season while CBU improves to 1-1 on the year.

The Knights return to action in the Trevecca Nazarene tournament in Nashville on Sept. 11 and 12.