Fighting all odds, the Baker University volleyball team was unable to pull through its first-ever victory against powerhouse Lindenwood University Tuesday in Collins Center.

The ‘Cats lost 3-1 to the No. 20-ranked Lions, collecting their first conference loss to sit third in the HAAC at 4-1 and 24-3 overall. Sophomore Brooke Allen said she didn’t think Baker played its best game, like Lindenwood did.

“I thought we fought very hard but I thought we could’ve played better,” Allen said. “Things weren’t working for us like they were working for Lindenwood.”

The Lions’ tough front row and nearly perfect defense made it difficult for BU to be successful offensively.

The ‘Cats collected 39 total kills to its 36 hitting errors, but performed better defensively with 70 digs. Allen led the team with 27 digs and junior Brooke Pryor had a team-high 12 kills. Freshman Jana Boss added 36 assists.

Allen said Lindenwood’s excellent serving took Baker’s offense away and made the team make unnecessary mistakes.

“I think we played very good defense,” she said. “They knew how to play us and I don’t think we made enough adjustments.”

The Wildcats will have a chance to redeem themselves Tuesday in another tough match, this time against Evangel University. However, things do not get easier yet, as the Crusaders are a perfect 5-0 in the HAAC and are tied with Lindenwood to lead the conference. Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Collins Center. <br/>