ST. JOSEPH, Minn. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire defeated the College of Saint Benedict in four sets, 23-25, 25-16, 25-20, 25-14, on Wednesday at Claire Lynch Hall. After dropping the first set, UW-Eau Claire rallied with a potent attack, recording 54 kills. Both teams matched each other with six service aces, but the Blugolds' defense outperformed with 75 digs compared to Saint Benedict's 66, securing a decisive road victory.
The first set of the match between UW-Eau Claire and Saint Benedict was tightly contested, with Saint Benedict narrowly prevailing 25-23. UW-Eau Claire mounted a comeback from a 6-2 deficit, tying the game multiple times, and even taking a brief lead at 21-20.
Abby Stanwood contributed for UWEC with a kill and a service ace, while
Bailey Leeke added four kills. However, Saint Benedict capitalized late including two service aces by Libby Burns, to clinch the set.
The Blugolds displayed a strong performance in the second set, securing a 25-16 victory over Saint Benedict. Stanwood contributed significantly with multiple kills and a service ace, while
Lili Hagg and
Norah Erickson were key at the net, each recording critical blocks. UW-Eau Claire capitalized on Saint Benedict's errors, including two service errors and several attack errors, to build and maintain their lead, finishing the set with a nine-point advantage.
UW-Eau Claire secured the third set with a 25-20 victory over Saint Benedict.
Mya Cinnamo and
Abby Stanwood had four kills each, contributing to the Blugolds' offensive efforts.
Alex Kiebel distributed efficiently, assisting on multiple kills, and the team capitalized on Saint Benedict's errors, including four attack errors and three service errors, to take control of the set.
The Blugolds dominated the fourth set to secure a 25-14 victory over Saint Benedict, highlighted by a strong offensive performance. Cinnamo led the way with five kills in the set, while Leeke contributed four kills and a service ace. The visiting team capitalized on multiple attack errors by Saint Benedict and maintained a consistent lead, ultimately closing the set with a decisive kill from Cinnamo.
Stanwood led UWEC with 18.5 points, recording 16 kills and 18 digs. Leeke contributed significantly with 15 kills, adding 12 digs and two service aces to her 18-point total. Cinnamo posted a .440 hitting percentage with 13 kills over 25 attempts. Kiebel facilitated the offense, amassing 37 assists while also making 11 digs and serving two aces.
UW-Eau Claire holds an 11-1 overall record in the current season. Saint Benedict stands at 8-2 overall.
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