BIG RAPIDS, Mich. - The Michigan Tech volleyball team held a 2-1 lead in sets and an 8-3 lead in points in the fifth set but couldn't put away St. Cloud State this morning in the opening match of the Ferris State Invitational. SCSU used a seven-point stretch midway through the final set to take control en route to a 15-12 final score in the frame.

"We're obviously disappointed," said second-year head coach Orlando Gonazalez. "We did everything but win the match."

Tech held overall advantages in hitting percentage (.280 to .163), side out percentage (55 to 52), blocks (7.0 to 2.0) and digs (53-51) in the match.

The Black and Gold took the early lead with a 30-28 decision in set one before SCSU answered with a 25-21 score in set two. Tech looked to be in control after dominating set three 25-15 for a 2-1 set lead in the match.

St. Cloud again tied the match with a 25-18 victory in the fourth. Michigan Tech built up an 8-3 lead in the fifth set before the teams switched ends. SCSU outscored Tech 12-4 after the switch to claim the win.

Junior Kristine Sexton led Tech in kills with 14 to go with a .355 hitting percentage. Senior transfer Kasey Woodcock hit .389 with eight kills in her first match with the Huskies. Sophomore setter Madeline Haben notched 32 assists. Junior Kathleen Storm just missed a double-double with 11 digs and nine kills.

Michigan Tech will return to action tonight at Ferris State with a 6 p.m. match vs. Mercyhurst.