The Missouri Southern women’s volleyball team was back in action on the road this weekend against Drury and the College of the Ozarks. The Lions have opened the season up 0-8. The last time the Lions opened up the season losing their first eight games was the 2012 season (2012 season: 0-30).

The Lions would try to get their first win of the season on the road against the College of the Ozarks.

In the first set, both teams came out hungry for a first-set victory. The Lions fell down early 10-5, but would rally and tie the set at 17 all. Both teams scratched and clawed to remain at a tie at 23-23 after an Ozarks timeout. C of O would come out of the timeout and finish the Lions 25-23 for a first set victory.

The next two sets were all C of O as they won convincingly 25-15 and 25-17. C of O never trailed in the second set and rallied off 11 of the next 14 points (tied at 14-14) to take set three and complete the sweep.

Callie Whetstone led the roars for the Lions as the senior had seven kills, two blocks, and hitting .267. Bridgette Jaeger had seven kills and three blocks, while Abby Finder dished out 18 assists. Katie Wiele had a match-high 15 digs.

A road matchup against Drury would follow next for the Lions. This would be the Lions’ second matchup against Drury this season and their final tuneup before conference play begins. Drury swept the Lions in the season opener at the Washburn Invitational on Sept. 4.

In the first set, the Lions came out blazing with a 6-2 run. From there, Drury would outscore the Lions 23-10, to take the first set 25-16. The most competitive set was the second set. Again, the Lions got off to a great start, leading 13-5 early in the second set before forcing a Drury timeout. After splitting eight points to make the score 17-11, Drury went on a 9-3 run to tie the game at 20. Drury took their first lead at 23-22 and wouldn’t relinquish it. Drury scored the final two points and took the set. After giving up two leads, the Lions came out flat in the third set. Drury capitalized and dominated the third set from start to finish, winning the set 25-10.

Twice the Lions have been swept by Drury this season.

The Lions will be back in action today when they open up conference play with a match at Missouri Western. Game time is set for 7 p.m.