YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio. - In a hard-fought battle against Youngstown State, the Golden Grizzlies volleyball team put up a strong effort but ultimately fell, 3-0, today at the Beeghly Center.

SET ONE: OAKLAND 20, YOUNGSTOWN STATE 25
The game kicked off with Youngstown State taking an early lead, but that advantage was short-lived. Oakland's Gentry Brown and Tyler Linkhart quickly stepped up, delivering impressive kills and coordinating their offense effectively. As a result, OU narrowed the gap, bringing the score to 14-11.

Brown kept up the offensive intensity, contributing four kills and two digs in the first set. Libby Smith and Lillian Frias also made their mark, each recording three kills. With just a three-point difference midway through the set, both teams maintained their high energy.

Despite Oakland's strong efforts to rally, they ultimately fell short. In a hard-fought first set, they lost to Youngstown State by five, finishing at 25-20.

SET TWO: OAKLAND 19, YOUNGSTOWN STATE 25
Oakland approached the second set determined to bounce back after losing the first. The start of the set featured an intense rally, with the teams trading points and staying within a one-point difference for much of the early action.

Key players Brown and Smith continued to showcase their skills with strong attacks and effective placements, contributing crucial kills that kept the game competitive. Their aggressive play and strategic hitting played a vital role in maintaining the pressure on the opposing defense.

However, despite Oakland's efforts, the Penguins managed to reclaim the lead at 19-15. Oakland fought back with determination, striving for a comeback, but ultimately, YSU secured the second set with a score of 25-19.

SET THREE: OAKLAND 15, YOUNGSTOWN STATE 25
In the third and final set, Oakland started strong and took an early lead. However, they couldn't hold on to it for long, as YSU was determined to win the match.

Smith played a pivotal role in this set, making a block, delivering a service ace and adding two kills. Frias also strengthened the offense with three kills of her own, highlighting the team's effective attack. Together, they helped keep Oakland competitive.

The Golden Grizzlies fought hard, but the Penguins maintained their momentum and executed key plays when it mattered most. In the end, YSU secured the victory, winning the set, 25-15.

Brown led the Golden Grizzlies with 11 kills, as Smith was right behind with her nine. Defensviley, Smith led Oakland with one solo block and a pair of block assists.

The Golden Grizzlies stay on the road next weekend, as it heads to Highland Heights, Ky., to face off against Northern Kentucky, both Friday (Nov. 8) and Saturday (Nov. 9). Both games will be streamed live on ESPN+.