COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Auburn Tigers fell to Missouri in five sets Sunday. Despite leading 2-1 entering the fourth set, Auburn could not secure the win and ultimately fell 3-2. Although the Tigers won two of the first three sets, they lost their momentum entering the fourth set and could not overcome Missouri’s early lead, losing 25-19.
The fifth and final set proved decisive as both teams fought for the victory. Auburn led early with a 7-5 advantage before Missouri rallied to tie the set at 9-9. Missouri closed out the set 15-11 to secure the match victory, and their ninth win of the season.
Junior outside hitter Lauren Dreves delivered a standout performance for the Tigers, leading Auburn’s offense with a season-high 22 kills. While Dreves led the team offensively, junior middle blocker Kate Mansfield controlled the Tigers’ defense at the net, leading with five blocks in the game. Emily Keiran also contributed defensively, recording a team-high 19 digs.
On the other side of the net, Missouri sophomore outside hitter Paige Felder dominated offensively, leading with a career-high 19 kills. Felder, along with teammates like senior libero Ainoah Cruz, played a crucial role in Missouri’s come-from-behind win against Auburn.
Another key contributor to Missouri’s victory was a player coming off the bench: Claire Morrissey. Junior Morrissey had back-to-back kills in the fifth set, playing a major role in Missouri’s win.
Ultimately, Auburn’s loss was a culmination of failing to capitalize on opportunities, along with Missouri’s strong attack on offense. Missouri finished with a .195 hitting percentage, compared with Auburn’s .153.
The Auburn Tigers will travel to Austin, Texas, on Friday, Oct. 16, to take on the Longhorns, looking to limit errors and improve consistency.
