ABILENE, Texas – Howard Payne University volleyball fell 3-2 to McMurry University on Friday at Kimbrell Arena, dropping a five-set match after taking a 2-1 lead. The Yellow Jackets fell 25-22, 22-25, 15-25, 25-22, 15-11.

Howard Payne (12-7, 2-5 ASC) bounced back after dropping the opening set, winning the next two to take control of the match. The Yellow Jackets claimed the second set 25-22 before dominating the third, 25-15.

In the third set, HPU used a strong serving performance to build an early advantage and maintain control. The Yellow Jackets recorded five service aces in the set, including four from Tara Bennett, helping them take a 10-point victory.

McMurry (6-12) responded in the fourth set, using a late run to pull away after the teams were tied at 21. The War Hawks won four of the final five points to take the set 25-22 and force a deciding fifth set.

The Yellow Jackets took an early 3-1 lead in the fifth set, but McMurry responded with a run to take a 5-3 advantage. Howard Payne battled to tie the set at 6, but the War Hawks pulled ahead and closed out the match 15-11.

Bennett led Howard Payne with 21 kills, hitting .320, while adding 22 digs, six service aces and two blocks. Emilee Casey contributed 19 kills and 16 digs, hitting .348. Emma Rosier recorded 30 assists, and Jadyn White finished with 10 digs.

Howard Payne finished with 64 kills, 12 service aces and 80 digs. McMurry recorded 60 kills and 77 digs while finishing with 15 total blocks.

After this loss, Howard Payne's chances to host a playoff game have dwindled significantly, as they now sit in fifth place in ASC standings. They look to bounce back playing three straight division rivals as they wrap up the season.

UP NEXT: Howard Payne volleyball will continue to play the next day in Abilene against division foe, Hardin Simmons University. The match will start at 12:00 PM on Saturday October 24.