By Annie Walker

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Fury (5-10) fell to the San Diego Mojo (6-8) at Nationwide Arena on Friday night in a five-set (25-21, 23-25, 19-25, 25-23, 10-15) thriller. It was Columbus’ fifth-straight loss.

Set 1

Columbus fell behind early, with the Mojo jumping out to a strong 12-5 lead in the first set. The Fury crawled back into the set with multiple runs before taking an 18-17 lead – their first of the match. Columbus wouldn’t surrender that lead for the rest of the set as they took the first set with a final score of 25-21. The Fury were able to take the lead by putting pressure on the opposing offense, leading to San Diego’s seven attack errors in the first set. Fury newcomer Kendall Kipp finished off the first set with her second kill of the match.

Set 2

The Fury once again trailed for most of the second set, falling behind early. Despite this, Columbus continued to fight to tie the set at 20, before ultimately falling 23-25. Kipp began to settle in with her new team and led the Fury with six kills in the second set.

Set 3

Columbus continued to battle into the third set, but lost its footing after a review went the way of San Diego and the referee awarded a point to the Mojo after issuing head coach Ángel Pérez a red card. Reagan Cooper registered five of Columbus’ 13 kills in the set.

Set 4

Columbus refused to be put away easily after falling behind late into the fourth set. The Fury rattled off four-straight points to overcome a deficit and take the set, 25-23. Cooper once again dominated in the set with seven kills on 11 attempts. Cooper scored three of the Fury’s last four points to help take the set.

Set 5

The Fury finally jumped out to an early 8-7 lead, but couldn’t hold onto it as some mistakes ultimately led to the 10-15 loss in the final set.

Standout Stats

Kipp dominated in her debut with the Fury, tallying 20 kills and two blocks to pair with Cooper’s 22 kills.

Kaitlyn Hord led the Fury with five blocks.

Up Next

The Fury head back to the West to take on Las Vegas at Lee’s Family Forum at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17.

COURTESY COLUMBUS FURY COMMUNICATIONS