ROHNERT PARK — Consistency was the key element lacking in Humboldt State's final volleyball match at the Seawolf Spike on Saturday, resulting in a 25-23, 20-25, 19-25, 15-25 loss to Western Oregon.

Combined with a 16-25, 19-25, 25-20, 20-25 loss to Northwest Nazarene earlier in the day, the Jacks finished the tournament with an 0-4 record on their opening weekend of the 2009 season. Serving was an area of trouble for HSU in the finale, with the Jacks committing nine service errors while making 12 receiving errors on their opponent's serve.

"We have to be more consistent with our serves in order to put that pressure on and allow our blocking and defense do well," HSU head coach Sue Woodstra said. "We're relying on a lot of young people, and they're going to have to grow up quickly and get tougher."

Danielle Wells was Humboldt State's offensive leader against the WOU Wolves, putting down 12 kills and posting a .214 attack perentage. Emily Nuss had 20 digs and Dani Nelson was a rare bright spot on the serve, putting down three aces.

Despite outblocking their opponent, 13.5 to 0, in the day's earlier match, the Jacks were unable to claim a victory. Humboldt State managed only a .090 hitting percentage, hurting itself with 21 attack errors.

Caitlin Dugan had nine kills to pace the offense, while Oceana Matsubu contributed 14 digs and five block assists.

"It's a thinking game, and sometimes we think too much while we don't think enough at other times," Woodstra said. "We have to steady ourselves and keep working to improve."

Humboldt State continues preseason tournament play this week, traveling to participate in the California Clash hosted by San Francisco State on Friday and Saturday.