GUNNISON, Colo. The Western Colorado women's volleyball team got back in the win column Friday afternoon, hosting Westminster University for a Homecoming matchup inside Paul Wright Gym. The Mountaineers battled through a thrilling five-set match, coming out on top against the Griffins to kick off Homecoming Weekend with a victory.
JUST THE FACTS
Final Score: Western Colorado def. Westminster University 3-2 (25-20, 25-22, 25-22, 25-21, 18-16)
Records: Western Colorado 7-7 (2-2 RMAC), Westminster University 2-11 (1-3 RMAC)
Location: Paul Wright Gym
HOW IT HAPPENED
- The Mountaineers came out swinging on the attack, jumping out to an early lead and setting the tone from the start. Western opened the set with a 3-0 advantage and never backed down. Westminster responded with a six-point run midway through the frame to take a 12-11 lead, but the Mountaineers remained calm and collected. Western closed the set on a strong run to take the opener, 25-20, and grab a 1-0 lead in the match.
- Western carried that momentum into the second set, battling back and forth with the Griffins throughout the frame. The Mountaineers remained composed down the stretch and secured the second set, 25-22, to take a 2-0 lead.
- Facing a two-set deficit, Westminster dug deep and responded by taking the third set, 25-22. The Griffins carried that momentum into the fourth set, forcing a fifth and deciding set.
- With the match on the line, the Mountaineers came through when it mattered most. Western opened the fifth set with a 9-3 run, but Westminster fought back and eventually tied the set at 13-13. The two teams battled point-for-point from there before Western finally closed the door. Sierra Long delivered the match-winning kill as the Mountaineers claimed the fifth set, 18-16, to secure the thrilling victory.
- Long led the Mountaineers offensively with a team-high 13 kills. Kyra Kidd added nine kills, while Karease Broeker finished with eight. Olivia Moore orchestrated the Western offense throughout the match, recording a season-high 38 assists.
- Defensively, Makaelah Paulino led the way with a season-high 21 digs. Moore added 15 digs, while Lauren Jacobson contributed 10. At the net, Andrea Torres recorded a team-high two solo blocks and added three block assists.
UP NEXT
The Mountaineers are back in action Friday, October 2, as they travel to Grand Junction to take on Colorado Mesa University. First serve is set for 6 PM.
