CHARLESTON, Ill. – The Eastern Illinois volleyball team (6-14, 2-8 OVC) dropped the front end of their two-game series against Southeast Missouri (10-10, 7-1 OVC) in Cape Girardeau on Thursday evening. The Panthers were competitive throughout the contest, but ultimately fell by a score of 0-3.

Eastern got off to a hot start and jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead in the opening set. However, the Redhawks regrouped and strung together seven consecutive points later in the frame to take a 12-10 lead. The Panthers briefly regained a 14-13 advantage, but SEMO outscored EIU 12-6 down the stretch to take the set 25-20.

The second set was tight throughout, featuring five lead changes and multiple ties. The Redhawks were eventually able to gain control with a 6-1 burst that put them ahead 22-19 late. Eastern turned away three consecutive set points to pull back to within one, but were unable to complete the rally as SEMO took a slim 25-23 win.

EIU fell behind early in the third set and were left playing catch up for the remainder of the frame. Th Panthers remained within striking distance for most of the set, but were never able to put together a big enough run to tie or take the lead as SEMO won the set 25-19 to close out the match.

Matilda Dahlström headlined the Eastern attack with a team-leading eight kills in the match. She was followed by Tori Mohesky, who had seven kills on an efficient .318 hitting percentage.

Catalina Rochaix led the Panthers with 23 assists while adding 10 digs for a double-double.

Two other Panthers posted double-digit digs, including Laura Paniagua (19) and Destiny Walker (12).

Eastern will look to rebound on Friday, as they are set face off with the Redhawks once more at 5 p.m. ESPN+ and Live Stats coverage will be available.