CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – Traveling to MVC leader Northern Iowa, the Illinois State Redbirds fought despite falling in three sets, 25-18, 25-13, and 26-24.
HOW IT HAPPENED
First Set (18-25): The teams battled back and forth early in the set and were tied as late as 7-7 before the hosts scored five consecutive points to turn the 7-7 tie into a 12-7 Northern Iowa advantage. The Panthers gradually extended the lead in the set, closing at 25-18 after the first frame of the contest.
Second Set (13-25): Northern Iowa scored the first four points of the set, and did not trail, despite the Redbirds fighting back to knot the score at five points apiece.