LAS VEGAS - The University of Idaho volleyball team hung tough, but #9 UCLA pulled away for a three-set victory.

The Vandals (4-2) held multiple leads in all three sets, but fell by scores of 21-25, 21-25, and 17-25. UCLA improved to 5-1 on the season.

"We did some great things defensively and battled with the number nine team in the country," Idaho coach Debbie Buchanan said. "We served tough and hung tight with them, but this was the best we've seen UCLA play so far in this tournament. We got the wins we needed this weekend and did some great things."

Alicia Milo led the Vandals with 13 kills and Sarah Conwell finished with 12. Meredith Rice tallied a career high 21 digs and Katie Tribley added 31 assists.

As a team, Idaho held a 47-41 advantage in digs and hit .119. UCLA held an 11-6 margin in blocks and finished with a .233 hitting percentage.

Idaho battled to eight ties and two lead changes in set one and trailed just 22-21 before UCLA scored the final three points with the help of two blocks. Set two saw four ties and two lead changes and the Vandals pulled within 20-19 before the Bruins held on for another victory. There were four ties and three lead changes in the final set and Idaho trailed 19-17 before UCLA rattled off six-consecutive points for the match victory.

Idaho is on the Palouse next weekend at the Nike Cougar Classic hosted by Washington State University. The Vandals will face the Cougars Friday (Sept. 11) at 7 p.m.