VILLANOVA, Pa.-Villanova's Volleyball team was unable to top the Xavier Musketeers in a three-set loss Friday night. The Wildcats drop to 8-4 (0-3 BIG EAST) while Xavier improves to 7-6 (2-1 BIG EAST).

The Musketeers caught fire early with a 6-2 lead in the first set powered by three kills. Villanova was able to narrow the gap and cut the deficit to 8-7 but Xavier separated themselves with a 5-1 run to set the score at 13-8. Trailing 15-9, the Wildcats battled back with a 4-0 run to cut the deficit to 15-13. Xavier ultimately pulled away with a 10-3 run for the 25-16 first set victory.

As the second set began, both teams traded blows including four ties. Despite the early back-and-forth affair, the Wildcats were constantly playing a game of catch-up. Trailing 24-18, Villanova made a late bid by scoring three consecutive points to cut the deficit to 24-21. The rally wasn't enough as a Delaney Hogan kill gave Xavier the 25-21 set win.

Down two sets, Villanova showed their true grit in the third set. Tied at eight apiece, Xavier went on a 5-0 run powered by a trio of kills from Kelly Franxman to lead 13-8. Villanova didn't let that run phase them and answered with a 6-1 run including a pair of kills from Madeline Barber to tie it at 14. Both teams continued to trade points and after a 4-0 run gave the Musketeers a 21-16 lead, the Wildcats were unable to hold Xavier off in a 25-17 win for the Musketeers.
Inside the Box Score

• Homer led the Wildcats with 10 kills.
• Barber provided eight kills, a block and recorded a .353 hitting percentage.
• Andrea Campos led the Wildcats with 27 assists.

 
The Wildcats return to action with a home match against Butler on Saturday, October 2 at 7:00 PM.