McPherson, Kan. – The Bulldogs hosted the University of Saint Mary Spires for the second conference match of the campaign. The Spires headed into the contest looking for their sixth consecutive win, while the Bulldogs aimed to extend their win streak to 17.
The Basics
Location: Holman Fieldhouse
Score: MC 3, USM 0
Records: MC 19-1 (KCAC 2-0), USM 12-6 (KCAC 2-1)
How it Happened
Both teams went back and forth in the opening set, but the Bulldogs broke away with a dominate 7-0 run to grab a 13-7 advantage. From there, McPherson kept the momentum rolling, and
Roxana Varela Parra put the finishing touch on a 25-13 set one win with a well-placed ball over the net.
McPherson raced out to a 4-0 lead in the second set, but Saint Mary wouldn't go away, pulling within one at 5-4. The Bulldogs pushed the lead back to six, yet the Spires kept fighting, closing the gap to 20-19. That's when the Bulldogs closed the door, scoring five straight points to take the set 25-19 and go up 2-0.
Momentum shifted in the third as the Spires took a 7-4 lead. McPherson answered with a four-point burst to move in front, but Saint Mary countered with a run of their own to build a 16-11 lead. The Bulldogs dug deep, rallying to tie things at 18 before the two teams traded points down the stretch. Trailing 21-20 late, McPherson responded, rattling off five straight points to secure the set, 25-21, and complete the sweep.
Brooke McHale powered the offense with 15 kills and a stellar .448 hitting percentage. Defensively,
Celestina Retumban kept the back line steady with 13 digs, and
Kaylee Stegora made her presence felt at the net with three blocks.
Up Next
McPherson hits the road Wednesday to face Bethany College for their first KCAC road matchup of the season. First serve is slated for 7:00 PM.
