· Box score
THIBODUAX, La. — UTSA jumped to an early lead on Friday night, but the Roadrunners were unable to sustain the momentum and Nicholls rallied for a 17-25, 25-16, 25-17, 25-17 victory at Stopher Gym.
The Birds (10-17, 5-8 SLC) lost for the fourth time in their last five matches, while the Colonels rebounded from Tuesday's heart-breaking loss at Southeastern Louisiana to improve to 11-16 overall and 5-8 in league play.
After Nicholls pulled within one at 13-12 in the opening set, UTSA closed out the frame on a 12-5 run to go in front. Nicholls responded by leading from start to finish in the next stanza to tie the contest at one set apiece.
With the third frame tied at 11, the Colonels went on a 9-2 run to put the set out of reach and they went on to wire UTSA one stanza later to close things out.
Outside hitter Whitney Walls led UTSA with 13 kills, while the Birds' defense was paced by libero Kelsey Jewasko and outside hitter Kendra Rowland, who both posted 11 digs. Middle hitter Brittney Malloy continued her strong play at the net with a pair of block solos and two assists.
Manieka Golden had 10 winners for the Colonels and Rachel Yesak added match highs of 14 digs and five block assists.
The Roadrunners conclude their weekend road trip on Saturday with a 2 p.m. match at Southeastern Louisiana (8-16, 4-9 SLC).
