The Central State Marauders are right back in action tomorrow night inside Beacom/Lewis Gym as they prepare to take on Maryland Eastern Shore, looking to build momentum after a hard-fought contest against Northern Kentucky Norse on Friday evening.

Central State (2-8) showed flashes of growth and competitiveness despite falling in straight sets (25-18, 25-20, 25-22). While the scoreboard reflected a 3-0 decision in favor of the Norse (3-6), the Marauders continued to demonstrate resilience and improvement, particularly in extended rallies and defensive intensity.

Competitive Sets Highlight Progress

The Marauders pushed NKU in each frame, with the second set proving especially competitive. Central State hit .250 in the second set with 12 kills and just five errors, matching Northern Kentucky's offensive tempo for much of the stanza before the Norse pulled away late.

In the opening set, the Marauders actually recorded 11 kills but were hindered by seven attack errors. The third set was a defensive grind, with Central State staying within striking distance before NKU closed the door late.

As a team, Central State totaled:

• 30 kills

• 28 assists

• 29 digs

• 6 service aces

Standout Performers

Preston Smith led the Marauders offensively with 7 kills, while Toulmin Williams IV and Jaedyn Harris each added 6 kills.

Christopher Demetriou orchestrated the offense with 22 assists and added 2 service aces, continuing to settle into his role as the floor general.

Defensively, Benjamin Latham was outstanding, anchoring the back row with 15 digs, a performance that kept Central State in system and extended multiple rallies.

Simon Falayi and Williams IV each contributed from the service line, and the Marauders continued to show improvement in transition play and serve-receive organization.

Turning the Page to Maryland Eastern Shore

Now, the focus shifts quickly to Maryland Eastern Shore. The Marauders will look to tighten up offensive efficiency after hitting .134 as a team against NKU, while maintaining the defensive energy that has become a calling card.

With SIAC play approaching, every non-conference matchup presents an opportunity for growth, chemistry building, and confidence. Central State continues to compete with toughness and belief, and tomorrow's matchup presents another opportunity to take a step forward.

First serve is set for tomorrow at 1pm inside Beacom/Lewis Gym.