After getting swept 3-0 by No. 1 Nebraska on Thursday, Northwestern had yet another difficult matchup against No. 22 Michigan State, where the ‘Cats fell 3-1. Northwestern dropped to 7-12 overall and 0-8 in the Big Ten. The Wildcats fought hard, but sloppy mistakes and fatigue ultimately cost them.
The first set started promisingly, with Northwestern jumping out to a 4-2 lead, but six straight points by Michigan State, including four errors by Northwestern, let Michigan State take control; it never relinquished the lead for the rest of the set, winning 25-16.
Northwestern’s offense was driven by first-year setter Ellie Stiernagle, who had seven assists, plus a kill and a block. She remained the engine throughout the course of the game, finishing with 38 assists and four kills.
First-year outside hitter Madi Andrews led the way for the Spartans, racking up seven kills and two service aces in the first set. Sophomore setter Malayah Long assisted on 10 of Michigan State’s kills and finished with 46 total assists.
The second set was the only one Northwestern was able to come away with. The set was highly contested, with six ties and three lead changes. Northwestern led 12-10 before falling behind 13-15 in a back-and-forth affair. Ultimately, the ‘Cats were able to battle back and win the set 25-21, winning off an error by Michigan State.
The ensuing third set was heartbreaking for the Northwestern faithful. With Northwestern holding a five-point lead multiple times, it looked poised to win the set and take control of the match. The ‘Cats, closing in on a 2-1 advantage, battled to a 21-18 lead. Then NU conceded seven straight points, allowing Michigan State to steal away the set.
Stiernagle continued her strong play in the third set with 10 assists and a kill. Sophomore outside hitter Bella Bullington and junior outside hitter Mara Štiglic each added four kills.
The final set was much the same for the Wildcats, as they took a 10-8 lead. But after that point, it was clear Northwestern didn’t have the energy left to win the set and push the match to five, and it went on to lose 25-19. The ‘Cats competed, but ultimately the depth and talent of the Spartans were too much to handle.
Northwestern will keep searching for a win against a Big Ten opponent, with its next chance coming against Michigan on Oct. 22.