BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Citadel volleyball team was defeated by Furman 25-16, 25-19 and 25-22 at the Southern Conference Championships on Saturday.

In the match, outside hitter Moriah Smith became just the fourth Bulldog ever to reach 1,000 career kills. The junior finished with a match-high 12 kills along with 11 digs, two block assists and a .345 hitting percentage.

The Bulldogs (8-25, 1-15 SoCon) got off to a slow start, dropping the first set 25-16. Furman opened the match with a 6-0 run, forcing a quick timeout from The Citadel. The Bulldogs pulled the match to within five points at 10-5, but could not get any closer as the Paladins cruised to the victory.

In set two, the Bulldogs played even with the Paladins for the first half of the set, tied 13-13. Furman pulled in front after four straight points, never looking back with a 25-19 set victory.

The Bulldogs had their best effort in the third set, hitting .216 and finishing with 12 kills to just four errors. The Citadel only ever trailed by three points the entire set. Trailing 19-18, the Bulldogs took three straight points to take a two point lead over Furman. Furman grabbed five straight points after a couple controversial scoring changes, finishing with a 25-22 victory.

Libero Samantha Espy recorded 11 digs, finishing her collegiate career with 1,441 digs, second most in program history. Right side hitter Megan Sowell finished with five kills and two block assists, while middle hitter Dominique Williams posted four kills, two block assists and a .444 hitting percentage. Setter Priscilla Irizarry recorded 14 assists, followed by Logan Smith with 11.

For more information on The Citadel volleyball follow @CitadelVB or visit CitadelSports.com.