They began with vigor, but finished with the same old story.
The Buffs volleyball team stumbled after a promising first-set start, losing to Arizona State 23-25, 25-22, 25-16, 25-19.
An 18th straight loss beginning the Pac-12 era continues to define the women’s volleyball team. But the Buffs can leave Tempe, Ariz, with some bright spots. Head coach Liz Kritza said the team’s blocking has improved.
“Our blocking was a brighter spot tonight, and we need to take that and build on it for tomorrow’s match,” Kritza said. “We have to take what we can use as positives to get ourselves in a good spot to compete because of the fast turnaround.”
CU led the Devils by two blocks in the match. Junior Kerra Schroeder garnered momentum for the Buffs for a team-high, 13 kills. Neira Ortiz Ruiz tallied a career-high, nine kills.
Two players recorded double-digit kills for the Devils, including Ashley Kastl, who gained a match-high, 18 kills.
Sophomore Megan Beckwith had a team-high 18 digs for the Buffs.
“We will harden our resolve and will continue to comeback and fight to put together a complete performance,” Kritza said. “The one thing about this team is that we simply refuse to give up. We will continue to work hard and to expect progress and we will not stop until we find success.”
The Buffs are now 5-21 on the season. They face the Arizona Wildcats Nov. 12 in Tucson, Ariz. at 7 p.m.
Contact CU Independent Sports Editor Michael Krumholtz at Michael.krumholtz@colorado.edu.