CEDAR CITY, Utah – Tarleton State Volleyball dropped their WAC opener at Southern Utah in straight sets on Thursday at the America First Event Center.

The Texans (5-9) fell to the Thunderbirds (5-7) during their first of two matches in Utah this week. This was the first loss for Tarleton in over a week, coming off four-straight victories to open their home slate. The Purple and White put up a valiant effort, but fell to their conference foes 3-0, (19-25, 24-26, 13-25).

Emma Burke led the team in two categories, notching six kills and five blocks. This was Burke's third match this year with five-plus blocks and her first match leading the team in kills.

WAC Libero of the Week, Emma Halcomb, led the Texans with 19 digs. Megan Hodges led the team posting 14 assists. This marked the 14th consecutive match that Hodges has registered double-digit assist totals.

In the opening set, Tarleton found themselves with early leverage, leading 10-7 off consecutive kills from Madison Frank. With Tarleton leading 15-14, Southern Utah sparked a four-point run taking an 18-15 advantage. The Thunderbirds went on to win the first frame, 25-19.

During the second set, the Texans took the lead once again at the 12-11 mark thanks to four consecutive errors from the Thunderbirds. Both teams continued to fight, but Southern Utah had set point, 24-21. WAC Player of the Week, Allison Bryant, sparked the first point of a 3-0 run from the Texans, who tied the set, 24-24. However, Southern Utah regained momentum, winning the second set, 26-24..

In the third and final frame, The Thunderbirds took an early 8-2 lead. The Purple and White were never able to tear away the deficit, dropping the final set, 25-13.

Tarleton will look to bounce back on Saturday where they will take on Utah Tech for their second conference match of the season. The game will be held at Burns Arena in St. George, Utah at 2 p.m. CT, and will be streamed on WAC International.