NORTHFIELD, Minn. — Hamline fell in a tightly contested match against the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, losing in straight sets, 28-26, 25-23, 26-24, at West Gym on Saturday. The Pipers (8-12, 3-5 MIAC) posted a .248 hitting percentage, while their opponents edged them with a .211 hitting percentage.
Hamline fought valiantly in the first set, but fell 28-26 to the Eagles. The Pipers capitalized on their opponent's errors, including three service errors, to keep the set competitive.
Grace Bathurst led the offense with crucial kills, contributing to a late rally that tied the set at 24-24, while
Cameryn Sand provided key assists throughout. The Eagles secured the set with a service ace, marking the final point in a tense conclusion.
In the second set, Hamline delivered a strong performance at the net with key blocks from
Britta Lund and
Lexi Helmin, contributing to an early lead.
Campbell Sims' service ace helped maintain momentum, but the visitors capitalized on Hamline's errors to close the gap and eventually pull ahead.
Sophia Johnson's kill tied the score at 22-22, but the Eagles managed to edge out a 25-23 win with decisive kills from Grace Nommensen and Reese Yocum.
Hamline saw a strong start in the third set, highlighted by Johnson's five kills and Sand's two service aces, propelling them to a 23-17 lead. However, the Eagles mounted a dramatic comeback, capitalizing on the Pipers' service and attack errors to tie the score at 23-23. The visitors ultimately edged out Hamline, 26-24, with Maddy Wilson contributing key plays down the stretch.
Bathurst tallied 14 kills and recorded 16.5 points, leading the team's offensive efforts.
Mandy Dierks posted a team-high 22 digs, contributing significantly to the defensive front. Johnson added 15 kills while also accumulating 15.5 points to bolster the attack. Sand delivered 37 assists, effectively orchestrating the offense throughout the match.
The Pipers will have back-to-back home conference matches next Friday and Saturday, October 31st and November 1st against Concordia and St. Scholastica, with Friday's match beginning at 7 PM and Saturday's matinee beginning at 3 PM.
