ST. JOSEPH, Minn. — Saint Benedict (9-3, 1-1 MIAC) defeated the Hamline volleyball team (5-6, 1-1 MIAC) in a four-set match on Saturday evening at Claire Lynch Hall. The Bennies secured the victory with set scores of 25-20, 25-22, 21-25, and 25-18. The Pipers' third-set win, fueled by a .323 hitting percentage, was not enough to overcome Saint Benedict's overall stronger performance, as the home team delivered 54 kills to Hamline's 41.

In a competitive opening set, Saint Benedict capitalized on Hamline's errors to secure a 25-20 victory. Despite the Pipers' efforts, including service aces by Claire Siems and Grace Bathurst, they were unable to maintain consistent momentum. 

Saint Benedict secured the second set against Hamline with a strong finish, winning 25-22. The Pipers capitalized early with a 6-0 run, featuring two kills and a service ace from Bathurst, but their momentum waned. Saint Benedict responded with a decisive comeback, overcoming a late deficit with a 7-0 stretch, highlighted by two kills from Keira McManus and a service ace from Ginny Schuler, to close out the set.

The Pipers capitalized on a strong blocking performance in the third period to secure a 25-21 victory over Saint Benedict, highlighted by a decisive 5-0 run to close the set. Hamline's defensive efforts were led by Claire Kaups and Siena Busalacchi, who combined for multiple key blocks, contributing to several Saint Benedict attack errors. Offensively, Bathurst and Sophia Johnson each registered crucial kills, with Bathurst also delivering a service ace late in the set, swinging the momentum firmly in Hamline's favor.

Saint Benedict capitalized on a strong start in the fourth set, jumping to a 6-0 lead and setting the tone for a 25-18 set win. 

Bathurst led Hamline with 18 kills on 34 attempts, achieving a .529 hitting percentage, while also contributing seven total blocks and three service aces. Cameryn Sand was pivotal in setting up the offense, recording 33 assists across four games and adding 17 digs on defense. Kayli Starkey showcased her defensive skills by collecting 17 digs over the series. Busalacchi added to the defensive effort with four total blocks and scored three kills.

The Pipers will be back in action at Hutton Arena on Friday, October 3 at 7 PM!