The Crusaders won the opening game against Maryville 22-25 only to lose the next two 25-11 and 25-16.
"We failed to deliver after jumping ahead 1-0. We failed to finish. We have a lot of work to do," said Coach John Mathis.
Acacia Thompson delivered the highlights with five kills, a dig, and three aces. Shayna Cole finished with six assists, a pair of digs and three aces. Kelsey Farris had four kills.
In the nightcap, Cleveland Christian regrouped to win the second match 2-0 (25-17, 25-23) against host team TCPS.
Carrie Claypoole provided strong serving with four aces. Cole had four assists and Farris had a strong hitting performance with seven kills.
Coach Mathis remarked, "Anytime you can pick up a win on the road after a disappointing loss, it helps soften the blow a bit. We walk away with a split and a lot of notes. As soon as we settle in on a starting lineup it will help."
The Lady Crusaders (2-1, 1-1) will host conference teams Oakwood Christian and Maryville Apostolic in a tri-match Tuesday evening. The first game is set to start at 5:30.
