Syracuse loses in straight sets for 4th consecutive loss

In the second game of the Kansas Invitational, Syracuse lost to Arizona in straight sets for the third time in four games this season. After qualifying for the NCAA tournament last season, the Orange have slumped to an 0-4 record to begin the year. 

Following her 40-assist performance against Morehead State last night, starting setter Elena Karakasi recorded 28 assists. Sophomore standout Polina Shemanova also tallied a team-high 18 kills. 

Looking to rebound after a five set loss the night before, Syracuse came out strong in the first set, opening up an 8-3 lead. But, several series of attacking errors proved costly for SU, as it dropped the first set 25-20. 

The second set began just as the first had, with SU quickly pulling in front 6-3. The set was tighter from there, as the teams traded points. Neither team led by more than two. But, when Arizona edged ahead 21-17, the four-point deficit was too much for the Orange and Arizona won the set 25-23. 

Just like much of the second set, the third set was largely a toss-up, with the score knotted at 15 midway through the set. With the score at 22-20 in favor of Arizona, a service error from freshman Marina Markova started a three point run for Arizona to close out the set, taking it by a score of 25-22. 

Syracuse will look to claim its first victory of the season in the final game of the Kansas Invitational tomorrow against Kansas (4-3) at 2 p.m.