Bulldogs Win Five Set Thriller over USM

Photo by Jakob Komel

McPherson, Kan. – The McPherson College volleyball team picked up an important win at home on Wednesday evening against the University of St. Mary Spires. The Spires came into the match 13-7 overall, and 2-1 in KCAC play and were receiving votes in the latest NAIA top 25 coaches poll.

The Spires looked strong out of the gate and took the opening set 25-21. At one point in the set, the Bulldogs trailed 21-13, but rallied to put pressure on the Spires. Ultimately the Spires took the set, but the late run by the Bulldogs served as a momentum boost heading into the second set.

The Bulldogs ran away with set two, 25-18, but gave the momentum back in the third set, allowing the Spires to win the set 25-21. Facing elimination, the Bulldogs bounced back and forced a deciding fifth set with a convincing 25-20 win in set four.

In the final set, the Bulldogs led early, 6-4, but the Spires went on a 4-0 run to take the lead 8-6. The Bulldogs rallied to win four of the next six points to tie the set at ten. The two teams split the next eight points evenly at four apiece and the set was tied at 14. Tied at 14 with the Bulldogs serving, Aidan Brown came through with a monster kill to give the Bulldogs match point. She came up big on the next point, hitting the ball off the block and securing the set win 16-14.

Key Statistic

The key statistic in Wednesday's win were kills and blocks. The Bulldogs finished with 69 kills and 8 blocks while the Spires had 62 kills and 5 blocks.

By the Numbers

The Bulldogs hit a .238 attack percentage, with three individuals hitting over .250.

They assisted on 66 of their 69 kills.

Defensively, they were credited with 79 digs and 8 blocks.

Bulldog Leaders

Kills: Aidan Brown (24)

Digs: Katelyn Moore (15)

Assists: Cynarah Rodriquez (62)

Aces: Bailey Avila (3)

Blocks: Aidan Brown, Sydney Burton (4)

Coach Quote

"What a battle. We fought through adversity against a strong and well coached team. We played our game and dictated the pace of the match at the times where it mattered most. Beyond proud of this group for embracing the battle." - Cory Cahill
 
Next Up
 
With the win, the Bulldogs move to 8-5 overall and are now 4-0 in conference play.  They will be back at home again on Saturday welcoming York College for a 1:00 pm match at the Sport Center.