Box Score

MOUNT OLIVE, NC- Men's volleyball traveled to North Carolina on Friday to take on the University of Mount Olive Trojans in their conference opener. The Lions fell to the Trojans 3-0, moving their record to 0-2 overall and 0-1 in Conference Carolinas play.

The Trojans took the lead early in the first set, setting the pace and making it tough for the Lions to catch up. Emmanuel was able to match UMO in total kills for the set with 14, but 5 more errors than the Trojans cost the Lions the set, 25-20

The second set began with the two teams trading points evenly for the first several minutes. However, with the score tied at 10, the Trojans took control and scored five straight points. The run included four blocks for the Trojans as the Lions struggled to attack. The Lions were unable to slow the Trojans' momentum, eventually losing the set, 25-17. 

The third set began in the same way as the second, with both teams fighting to gain an edge. Neither team led by more than two points for the entire set. Every time the Trojans would take the lead, the Lions would respond to tie the score. This continued until the score was tied at 21 points each. A kill for the Trojans and an error from the Lions gave UMO a two point lead, 23-21. Sophomore Jayden Young and senior Don Thompson responded with kills for the Lions, but it wasn't enough as the Trojans scored two more points themselves, taking the set 25-23. 

The Lions were led by senior Aleksa Lakic, who recorded 14 kills and had a hitting percentage of .448. Young followed with 10 kills, while Don Thompson recorded 7 kills, a solo block, and a hitting percentage of .467. 

Next up, men's volleyball will take on Barton College at 3pm on Saturday, February 6. 

For more on Emmanuel College athletics, visit goeclions.com.