Sept. 12, 2008

Texas A&M International University split two matches with Lone Star Conference opponents at the Tarleton State Invitational on Friday. The Dustdevils defeated Central Oklahoma 3-2 in the opener before dropping a five set decision to Midwestern State.

TAMIU (2-7 overall) finished with a season-best .241 team attack percentage in the win over UCO. Freshman Isela Flores and senior Nicole Gipson notched 12 kills apiece with sophomore Brittany Smith contributing 11 kills. Madison Mojica led the squad with 14 digs with Flores finishing with 10 digs.

The Dustdevils nearly dealt Midwestern State (10-0) its first loss of the season in the late match. The deciding set was a 24-22 win for the Mustangs.

Smith came up big in the near upset, finishing with 19 kills and a .548 attack percentage. Gipson finished with 16 kills and Danielle Gilley recorded a team-high 49 assists.

TAMIU will conclude tournament play on Saturday with two more matches against LSC foes. The Dustdevils will face Texas Woman's at 11:30 a.m. and host Tarleton State at 3:30 p.m.