By Cort Reynolds
HARROD - Visiting Bluffton lost a five-set heartbreaker at rival Allen East in a Northwest Conference volleyball thriller Thursday night.

Bluffton led 2-1 but lost the fourth set, then was nipped in a tight fifth game by just two points.

The 27-25, 21-25, 21-25, 25-21, 15-13 defeat dropped the Lady Pirate record to 11-9 overall, and they finished 4-4 in NWC play. AE improved to 7-5 overall and 3-4 in the NWC with the comeback victory.

Sophomore Kylie Stackhouse led the Pirate offense with 17 kills and four blocks. Versatile junior Taylor Schwab compiled 15 kills, 27 digs, four aces and three blocks.

Sophomore setter Skyler Scoles dished out 40 assists and served up three aces. Joscelin Reineke came up with 20 digs.

Bluffton also lost the JV match, 2-0.

Having lost three in a row, Bluffton hosts LCC Tuesday, October 8. The Pirates then visit Van Buren Oct. 9 to end the regular season with two non-league bouts.