EDMOND, Okla. (Feb. 21, 2021) – Oklahoma Christian's revived volleyball team – with all of eight matches to its credit this season, its first since fall 1983 – held its own for a time Sunday night against a Central Oklahoma squad long established as a successful NCAA Division II program.

The Bronchos' experience eventually paid dividends, however. OC held at least a three-point lead in each of the first two sets but eventually fell 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-20) to the Bronchos at Hamilton Field House in what's thought to be the first varsity meeting between the nearby rivals.

Allyssa Hamlin led OC (2-6) offensively in the nonconference match with eight kills and added 17 digs. Emily Armstrong added 11 assists while Jessica Souza had 10, and the Eagles picked up 18 digs from Alexandra Aponte Torres.

But ultimately, OC proved unable to overcome the Bronchos' offense, led by Darla De Carvalho Peixe, who had 10 kills and a .273 attack percentage. Five Bronchos recorded at least 15 assists, led by Courtney Lane with 32. Jaedynn Evans had 29 digs to lead UCO (2-0) defensively.

OC started strong and led the opening set 16-11 after a kill by Hannah Rouse. UCO trailed 20-18 before reeling off seven of the final eight points of the set.

The Eagles led 14-11 in the second set but UCO went on a 10-2 run to take a 21-16 lead. Two aces by Lily Saenz keyed a 5-0 spurt by OC that tied the set, but the Bronchos scored the final four points to take a two-set lead and then finished off the match.

OC is scheduled to return to Lone Star Conference action this week, visiting Midwestern State (Texas) on Tuesday and Wednesday for a key pair of divisional matches, before hosting UCO next Sunday in another nonconference match.