ABILENE, TEXAS - In a back-and-forth American Southwest Conference season opener that presented plenty of excitement, McMurry University was thwarted by Howard Payne University Saturday, Sept. 16. The War Hawks, who had the visiting Yellow Jackets tied after two sets dropped a narrow third set finish before HPU got their offense in high gear in the fourth set inside Kimbrell Arena to conclude a 25-21, 21-25, 25-21, 25-10 outcome.
 
The opening set had 10 ties and five lead changes with the War Hawks taking an early 6-2 lead. McMurry seized momentum by firing off six straight points in the second set which allowed it to get the lead and hold on for the win. The third set almost mirrored the first with eight ties and two lead changes before HPU responded with its fourth set attack.
 
McMurry had 43 kills, led by freshman outside hitter Zoe Aldrich (Fredericksburg, Texas) with 13. Sophomore setter Ashlyn Quillan (Van Alstyne, Texas) had 23 of the team's 41 assists with freshman setter Allison Montoya (Fort Worth, Texas) contributing 12. Of McMurry's 64 digs, senior defensive specialist/libero Addie Leal (Clute, Texas) had 22 and junior outside hitter Jacee Dinkins (Azle, Texas) added 13.
 
Head coach Cammie Petree's front line defense also continued to see improvement. The Maroon and White recorded two solo out of six total blocks.
 
McMurry will finish a three-match homestand Tuesday, Sept. 19 when future conference foe Schreiner University comes to town. First serve is 6 p.m.