Elsah, ILL. -- The Principia College Panthers defeated the Harris-Stowe State University Hornets 3-1 tonight in the Panther's home opener match.
A Look into the Match:
Both Harris-Stowe and Principia came into the match 1-1 looking for the "w". The Panthers started out with strong serving from
Sarah Ungerleider and built a 12-3 lead. A little later, Principia scored 4 in a row behind good serving from
Greer Sprague, and then
Nikki Matters stepped to the line at 18-7 and served the rest of the game 25-7. It was obvious Harris-Stowe was struggling to pass and hit the ball in game one, and it was even more obvious that they were tightening things up as game two began. There was NOTHING easy about game two for Principia. Principia's ball control struggled and their offense had way too many errors. Harris-Stowe did a good job of cranking up the heat and executing well, and the result was a 14-25 loss. Game three was all over the place – Prin was up 13-8, then tied at 17-17, and then behind 21-23, tied again at 24-24, and finally a 26-24 win. Game four was closer to game one. The women were determined and every single one played a part in moving towards fearless, fun and effective play. Principia won game four with a decisive 25-18 score.
Good to Know:
Amanda Roberts and
Greer Sprague both served 100%.
Nikki Matters led the squad with 19 kills, hitting .208, and Nikki added 17 digs and 5 aces to the outing.
Mesa Goebel led the backcourt with 20 digs and
Amanda Roberts picked up 15.
Incredible leadership from setter
Devon Marunde kept this team moving in the right direction. Devon had 32 assists, two aces, 11 digs and a block.
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She said it:
Coach Sprague shared, "This team stuck together and never backed down from all of the challenges. Due to an injury many people had to play in positions they have never played, and I applaud their grit and grace in stepping up. The group inspired me with their diligence and perseverance."
Next up:
Principia plays at home this weekend Friday at 8pm, and at 10am and 2pm on Saturday.
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