MARION, IND. - No. 17 volleyball picked up a win in a thrilling four set contest against Saint Xavier University tonight. After dropping the first set 25-16, the Wildcats took the final three sets 30-28, 25-21, and 25-23. This is the second time the teams have matched up this season, with Saint Xavier winning the first match 3-0 on September 3rd.
- Location: Indiana Wesleyan University | Marion, Ind.
- Records: IWU - 17-5, 9-3 CRL | Saint Xavier University - 15-5, 10-0 CCAC
- NAIA Top-25 Ranking: IWU - #17 | SXU - RV
- IWU got off to a slow start in set one, finding themselves down 9-0 before they picked up their first point on a Cougar service error. The Cougars then scored 6 straight to take a 15-1 lead. The Wildcats picked up momentum at the end of the first set, but were unable to overcome the early hole, dropping the set 15-6.
- IWU had all of the momentum early in set two, jumping out to a 10-2 lead, and holding a 19-9 lead late in the set. Saint Xavier was able to pull even at 24, but a kill by Alex Lloyd and a Cougar error gave Indiana Wesleyan the second set victory.
- After falling behind 5-1, IWU used runs of 9-2 and 6-2 to give them the edge in set three.
- The teams were evenly matched in the fourth set as the Cougars took a 23-21 lead late in the set. Following an IWU timeout, the Wildcats scored 4 straight points to escape with a 3-1 victory.
- Eva Joldersma led the way with 20 kills.
- Cadee Notter recorded 4 aces, including 3 straight in the fourth set.
- Victoria Johnson posted 4 blocks.
- Abbigail Porter had 23 assists while Cassie Gregory had 22.
- Ally Barkhaus tallied 16 digs to lead the team.
- "I loved the battle shown tonight. There were a lot of changes in the line-up and each person played their role. I am so proud of the girls and looking forward to tomorrow to take more steps in our growth."
- IWU takes on Trinity Christian College tomorrow at 1pm.
- Individuals looking to attend can purchase tickets at IWUWildcats.com/Tickets
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