Volleyball Grabs Road Win Over MidAmerica Nazarene 3-1

McPherson, Kan. – McPherson went on the road Tuesday night to take on the MidAmerica Nazarene Pioneers, defeating them in four sets. Both teams entered the match looking to extend their win streaks.
 
The Basics
Location: Cook Center
Score: MC 3, MNU 1
Record: MC 17-1 (KCAC 0-0), MNU 8-3 (HHAC 3-0)
 
How it Happened
The Bulldogs faced a tough challenge against the Pioneers, dropping the opening set before rallying to win the next three. Early on, the teams traded points, but the Pioneers pulled ahead 12-7, forcing a McPherson timeout. The Bulldogs couldn't close the gap and fell 25-16, giving MidAmerica a 1-0 lead.
 
In set two, McPherson jumped out to a 9-6 lead early on, but the Pioneers fought back to take a 16-13 advantage. A useful timeout by the Bulldogs shifted the momentum in their favor and allowed McPherson to score 12 of the final 15 points, taking set two and leveling the match at 1-1.
 
McPherson jumped out to another early lead in the third set, but MidAmerica was able to rally and knot the set at 12-12. The teams exchanged points from there, but the Bulldogs were able to get the upper hand and take a 21-17 lead, causing the Pioneers to burn a timeout. McPherson maintained their lead following the break, allowing the Pioneers to score only one point on their way to closing out the set 25-18.
 
Heading into set four with a 2-1 lead, the Bulldogs aimed to close out the match. Both sides hit with a high percentage, but McPherson was able to outlast MidAmerica, cruising to a 25-19 set four win to secure the victory.
 
Enya Fierens led the Bulldog offense with 10 kills and an impressive .563 hit rate, while April Conilogue anchored the net with seven blocks. At the service line, Celestina Retumban and Georgia Brell each contributed three aces, helping secure the team's victory.
 
Up Next
A well-deserved week off will allow the Bulldogs to reset their batteries before entering conference play. They'll host the Sterling College Warriors on Wednesday, September 24^th for their first KCAC matchup of the season. First serve is set for 7:00 PM.