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CHARLESTON, Ill. - Eastern Illinois (2-5, 0-0 OVC) dropped their home opener in Lantz Arena to Western Illinois (2-5, 0-0 SUMMIT) by a final score of 3-0. The Panther offense again posted two double digit hitters in the match, but couldn't get in rhythm to pick up the win. The final scores were: 22-25, 21-25, 16-25.

Giovana Larregui Lopez once again led all attackers in the match with 14 kills. This marks the fifth time this season Larregui Lopez had had 10+ kills in a match. She also was able to collect nine digs which was second on the team.

Tori Mohesky set a new season high with her 10 kills against the Leathernecks. Her .259 hitting percentage wa second on the team with at least five attempts. Early in the third set Mohesky was able to capitalize on attacks with four kills. She also had six digs and one service ace.

Emily Wilcox had an efficient night with four kills and a .600 hitting percentage to lead the team. EIU hit just .151 in the match compared the Western's .262 percentage. WIU was held to just 10 attack errors while the Panthers had 21.

Catalina Rochaix was one assist high of tying her season high with 26 assists. She led all setters in the match. The Panthers posted two ball handling errors during their sets and also posted four blocking errors that gave away points to WIU.

Christina Martinez Mundo was all over the floor despite only having 13 digs. Mundo saved multiple attack attempts from the Leathernecks that helped EIU claw their way back in the first set after being down 17-7.

Kaitlyn Flynn and Lilli Amettis both contributed on offense with three kills each. This match marked Flynn's return to the court after missing the first six matches of the season.

The Leathernecks were led by Aubrey Putman with 11 kills at the net and Kennedy Bauer with seven to lead the WIU offense. Maggie Craker and Jessie Connell combined for 27 assists while Karli Wenzel led the way on defense with 16 digs.

The Panthers will be back in action on Friday, Sept. 9 at 9:00 a.m. when they travel to the Eastern Kentucky Tournament in Richmond, Ky. EIU will play Purdue Fort Wayne, Saint Francis (Pa.) and Eastern Kentucky. Eastern will play two matches on Friday and one on Saturday. Livestats and video will be provided.