Nov. 28, 2003

Box Score

Long Beach, Calif. - TCU had one of their defensive matches tonight, pacing the nationally ranked Cal Golden Bears. The Horned Frogs surprised themselves with the quality of their play against nationally ranked Cal in the first game. Although the finishing score, 30-20, may not be evidence of it, the Frogs were with the Bears point-for-point, especially in the first half. Calli Corley's serving helped boost TCU, as did Britany Smith's defense. One of the Frogs' well-earned points was inspired by Smith's dig/over of a Cal line-drive; Emily Allen and Anna Vaughn put up a big block assists to all-American Mia Jerkov's attempt. The difference at the end of the game, however, lie within both teams owning 32 attempts while Cal had twice as many kills.

Cal came out stronger the second game, hitting .441 to the Frogs' .125. Erin Estep came out with four kills to lead the Frogs, but their real strength this game proved to be their passing and floor defense altogether. One Extremely long, scrappy rally showcased amazing digs by both teams but unfortunately ended with a Frog attack error. TCU fell 18-30.

The third game turned out to be the closest of all, with the Frogs keeping up through the 20th point. TCU looked like they could go into the fourth game straight up to the last point, which ended with a disappointing attack error.

"It was a great effort," Coach Prentice Lewis said afterwards. "We played extremely tough, all the way up to 20, but then we made errors and they put it away. We knew it would be hard going into it, but these are the teams that we need to compete with, these top 25 teams. I am pleased with the outcome."

Anna Vaughn led the Frogs again with 10 kills and five blocks while Ellen Rehme scooped up eight digs.

The Frogs, 20-14, play UC-Irvine tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. CDT.

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