Crusaders Battle but Fall to Lighthouse

The Columbus Christian Crusaders gave their home crowd plenty of grit and hustle Tuesday night, but the Bloomington Lighthouse Lions managed to guard their den in straight sets, winning 25-17, 25-14, 25-21 in Southern Roads Conference play.

Emma Rice was the Crusaders’ spark plug, digging deep with 15 defensive saves while also chipping in four kills at the net. Setter Addison Smith steered the attack with five assists and added two aces from the service stripe. Up front, Bella Frederickson built a brick wall with five blocks and added three kills of her own.

Katie Bond hustled her way to three kills and six digs, while Abby Dora dished out four helpers and served with poise. Mara Nickerson and Macimae Brown rounded out the Crusader effort with timely defensive plays. Columbus Christian, now 4-10 overall and 2-3 in conference, showed flashes of rhythm, especially in a tight third set, but Lighthouse managed to flip the switch late.