SAINT PETER, Minn. — Hamline (9-15, 4-7 MIAC) edged out #21 Gustavus Adolphus (23-6, 9-2 MIAC) in a tense five-set match on Gus Young Court, winning 27-25, 11-25, 18-25, 25-22, 15-13.
Hamline edged past Gustavus Adolphus in a tightly contested opening set, securing a 27-25 victory. Hamline's offense was bolstered by 13 kills and two service aces, overcoming five attack errors. Gustavus Adolphus managed 12 kills and three aces, but was outblocked 1-2.
Gustavus Adolphus capitalized on eight errors from the Pipers to dominate the second set, finishing 25-11. Hamline managed seven kills and one service ace but struggled with two attack errors. Gustavus Adolphus capitalized with four service aces and eight kills, maintaining control throughout the set.
Gustavus Adolphus capitalized on service pressure in the third set, recording two aces and minimizing errors to secure a 25-18 victory. Despite Hamline's 14 kills in the period, Gustavus Adolphus held firm defensively with two blocks and maintained a three-point cushion throughout. The home team leveraged five errors from Hamline to build and sustain their lead, closing the set and taking a 2-1 match advantage.
Hamline capitalized on a strong offensive performance to secure a 25-22 victory in the fourth set against Gustavus Adolphus. The visiting team delivered 12 kills and three aces, while minimizing errors compared to their opponent. Gustavus Adolphus managed nine kills and matched Hamline with three aces, but four attack errors hindered their efforts to close the gap. With this set win, Hamline maintained their lead, overcoming Gustavus Adolphus' attempts to rally.
Hamline secured a narrow victory in the fifth set, edging Gustavus Adolphus 15-13. Despite recording fewer kills than the home team, Hamline's defense proved crucial, as they registered one block and capitalized on Gustavus Adolphus' four service errors. The visitors minimized their own errors, allowing them to maintain a slight advantage and seal the win.
Kaitlyn Kotek recorded 36 assists and collected 23 digs, leading the team in both categories.
Grace Bathurst contributed significantly with 12 kills and two blocks, finishing with a .323 hitting percentage.
Nora Cairns added 16 kills and totaled 16.0 points, the highest for the team.
Mandy Dierks provided defensive support with 25 digs, a team-high in this match.
The Pipers concluded their season 4-7 in conference play and 9-15 overall. Thank to the team and seniors for a wonderful season and fantastic time with Hamline! GO PIPERS!