JACKSONVILLE, Ala. - Central Arkansas finished their road trip against Jacksonville State as they dropped the match 3-0. 

The Sugar Bears come home from their road trip empty-handed as they fell in both matches in Alabama. While these matchups did not prove fruitful for UCA, there was continued success from a few young players on the squad. Amongst those leaders were freshmen Jamiryana Hall and Mackenzie Vernon. Both athletes were amongst the top in kills as they produced nine each. On the defensive side, the young talent continued to prevail as sophomore Macy Blackburn led in blocks (3) and sophomore Lexie Gregory led in digs (14). 

Set 1:
The Sugar Bears trailed for the entirety of the first set, but it remained relatively close throughout. That factor played a role all the way up to the end as UCA forced JSU into a timeout at 19-22. The Sugar Bears tried to fight back with only a three-point difference in the set, but it was in vain as the Gamecocks won the set 25-20.

Set 2: 
The second set showcased JSU's defensive prowess as they held UCA to a .071 hitting percentage. That ability to force mistakes and limit kills played a significant factor, as the Sugar Bears could never get anything going. Ultimately the Gamecocks dominated as the one the overall set 25-16. 

Set 3:
The final set was the closest of the three from a score and hitting perspective. In the third, the Sugar Bears outhit the Gamecocks .361 to .357 in an offensive showcase. It played out that way, as well as UCA was involved in a back-and-forth affair. That was proven as the largest lead of the entire set was 13-9 in favor of the Gamecocks. It was like that throughout as the Sugar Bears even tied it up 21-21. However, JSU got the last laugh as they outscored UCA 4-1 to win the set 25-22 and the match 3-0.

Next, the Sugar Bears will head to Jacksonville, Fla. to face a trio of cross-divisional opponents in the 2nd ASUN Crossover Friday through Sunday. 

Quote from head coach John Newberry:
"It's not the result that we wanted. Jacksonville State is extremely good team. I thought we competed well and did some very good things. I thought that our offensive production against a very good defense of team who is the best it's been this season." 

"Jamiryana Hall played extremely well in the front row. She had a massive block in front of her and found a way to get her kills. Anna Myers played very well today. Her decision making was very good and set location was very consistent for us today as well."

"We have a long week coming up accompanied with a long weekend for our crossover Games in Jacksonville Florida. We are still looking to gradually get better especially with our younger group within the program."