Ellen Herman could only watch as her team let a 2-1 lead slip away against Long Beach State in the Pioneer Classic tournament final Saturday.
The middle blocker's absence proved to be costly for the Bobcats, who dropped the final two games of the match to fall 3-2 to the 49ers.
It's hard because Ellen is our offensive leader
Head Coach Geoff Carlston said. Ellen gets more kills than anyone per match and when you lose that it's not easy.
Herman, who injured her ankle Friday in the Bobcats' victory over Washington State, said it was difficult not being able to play in the championship match but remained optimistic about her ankle.
It's not the easiest thing to watch the other team play
she said. (My ankle) is doing pretty good
and it's just a little swollen. It's nothing too drastic.
With Herman sidelined, Ohio suffered another blow to its front line in the second game against the 49ers when middle hitter Meghan Simons injured her ankle, putting her out for the rest of the match.
While two key players sat on the sidelines, Long Beach State rallied to take the final two games and the championship match.
It's disappointing; we had Long Beach State on the ropes
Carlston said. It's all about lessons and trying to grow up as a team. We played a really good game three and four
but [comebacks] are a part of the sport.
Middle blocker Melissa Griffin led the Bobcats with 18 kills and four blocks, and outside hitter Stephanie Blackburn paced the 'Cats with 15 kills and seven digs. The co-captains were named to the all-tournament team.
The Bobcats began the tournament against an upset-minded Denver squad that pushed Ohio to five games in the first match of the tournament.
Although the Pioneers jumped to a 2-1 lead, the Bobcats rallied to take the ensuing two games and defeat the host of the tournament.
Denver probably played their best match of the year
which seems to be happening a lot against us
which is good
Carlston said.-
and we found a way to come back.
Griffin again led Ohio, matching a career high 23 kills. She also tallied eight digs, seven blocks and four assists in the comeback.
I just realized that I need to step up as a senior
