BELTON, Texas — The Howard Payne University volleyball team battled throughout the afternoon but could not overcome the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in American Southwest Conference action Saturday, falling in straight sets 25-19, 25-22, 25-20 at the Mayborn Campus Center.

The Yellow Jackets showed resilience in each set, particularly in the second and third frames, but UMHB used key late runs to complete the sweep.

Howard Payne was led by Tara Bennett, who posted a match-high 13 kills while adding 14 digs for a double-double. Sam Torres chipped in five kills and nine digs, and setter Emma Rosier recorded 15 assists while directing the Yellow Jacket offense.

After staying within striking distance through much of the opening set, Howard Payne saw Mary Hardin-Baylor pull away with a late surge to claim a 25-19 victory.

The Yellow Jackets mounted their strongest rally in the second set. Trailing by as many as nine points, Howard Payne stormed back to cut the deficit to 24-22 and fought off multiple set points before the Cru secured the final point for a 25-22 win and a two-set advantage.

Howard Payne again battled in the third set after falling behind early. The Yellow Jackets trimmed an eight-point deficit to just three points at 23-20 before Mary Hardin-Baylor closed out the set and match, 25-20.

Defensively, Howard Payne totaled 55 digs and stayed competitive at the net against a Mary Hardin-Baylor squad that finished with 12 team blocks. Bennett's all-around effort paced the Yellow Jackets, while Rosier helped keep the offense balanced throughout the match.

UP NEXT: It's a quick turnaround for the Lady Jackets as they will compete with Austin College and the University of the Ozarks for a third time in a Sunday afternoon tri-match in Sherman, Texas. HPU begins the day at 2:00 p.m. Central Time against UofO.