The Chico State women’s volleyball team faced Cal State L.A. Friday and lost in five games (25-16, 21-25, 25-22, 21-25, 12-15).

In the first game, the Wildcats were firing on all cylinders and drew first blood 25-16. Through the second game, both teams traded points but the Golden Eagles prevailed 25-21.

As the match was tied at one apiece, the third game was another close one where both teams were even at 22, until the ‘Cats took the next three points and won 25-22. In the fourth game, the Golden Eagles returned the favor and won 25-21 to tie the match at two apiece.

In the fifth and final game it was do or die, and the Wildcats fell short 15-12 and lost the match.

The leaders for the ‘Cats were juniors Lindsay Quigley and Ellie Larronde with 18 and 17 kills apiece. Freshman Torey Thompson matched a game high with 55 assists.

“We had great energy early but didn’t close in on the little things,” said junior middle hitter Kristyn Casalino.

The Wildcats are now 7-8 on the season and 4-4 in conference play. The next game will be Saturday at home against Cal State Dominguez Hills.

Ben Marquez can be reached at [email protected]