Vikings Defeat Yellowjackets in Three

Box Score

BELLINGHAM, Wash. – The Montana State Billings Yellowjackets wrapped up the 2009 season with a three set loss to Western Washington University Saturday evening at Court, 25-22, 25-19, 25-21. The loss dropped the Yellowjackets to 17-11 overall and 10-6 in the conference.

“We really lacked in our service receptions tonight and that has been one of our strong points over the past few weeks,” said head coach Steve Smith. “Western is tough team and proved why they’re one of the best teams in the conference. Finishing 10-6 in the conference (tied for third) was a great showing for us this season. It’s just disappointing to see our season end like this.”

The Yellowjackets were led by senior outside hitter, Devon Crotteau, who ended her MSUB career with a double-double, 16 kills and 23 digs.

The Vikings hardly trailed during the match, leading throughout the first set and using a run to break away from a 5-5 tie in the second to take a 2-0 lead into the break. MSUB had its chances in the third set, leading 20-19, but Western was able to score five straight to set match point. Crotteau had a kill to end the run, but a kill from Bailey Jones finished the match.

Emily Jepsen led the Vikings (17-10, 10-6) with a team-high 11 kills, three blocks and three service aces. Marlayna Geary had a double-double with 10 kills and 10 digs, while libero Allison Gotz had 17 digs.