Trojans Fall 3-1 to #1 Ranked Bellevue

Everett, WA — The Trojans gave the NWAC's top-ranked Bellevue College Bulldogs a tough test Wednesday night inside Walt Price Fitness Center, pushing the undefeated Bulldogs before ultimately falling in four sets (21-25, 19-25, 25-23, 13-25).

The Trojans (8-14, 3-1 NWAC North) showed poise and energy throughout the match, highlighted by a thrilling third set win that snapped Bellevue's streak of 24 consecutive sets won. Everett fought back from an early deficit, using aggressive serving and improved attack efficiency to steal the frame 25-23.

Sophomore middle Maya Gaudia led the Trojan offense with 9 kills and 3 blocks, while Jessica Eames added 5 kills and an ace in a steady all-around performance. Setter Taylor Holland dished out 21 assists and chipped in 2 service aces, and libero Natalie Spelman anchored the defense with a team-high 21 digs.

Despite Everett's defensive grit, Bellevue's balanced attack proved too much down the stretch. The Bulldogs (22-0, 4-0) hit .195 for the match, led by Gillian Merhoff's 14 kills and Mya Hejl's 12 kills and 3 aces. Bellevue's dominant fourth set, hitting an impressive .500, sealed the match.

Everett moves to 3-1 in the north region standings but in a comfortable 3rd place position, one game ahead of Whatcom, a team the Trojans defeated 3-1.  EvCC will now play three straight road matches beginning with Shoreline on Friday night, and the highly anticpated T-Trophy Rivalry match against Edmonds next Wednesday.