DULUTH, Minn. -- North Central University (NCU) volleyball found themselves back on the road on Tuesday night where they were set to face the College of St. Scholastica Saints in another hefty
UMAC matchup. With history between the two schools on the Saints' side coming into tonight, the Rams were unable to bring home a set against a powerful Saints team. NCU did find good aspects to their play along the way, which will help them build an even stronger fundamental foundation as they face well-established opponents.
Game Recap
A matchup against one of the premier
UMAC opponents held the storyline in this matchup. With incredible depth at the helm, the Saints were able to alter looks offensively which slowed the Rams' attack. Through the first two sets, the Rams rotated as quickly as they could along the net to give more time for their back row against the Saints' powerful outside hitters. This was their bread and butter the rest of the match as the Rams were unable to adjust and gain any momentum throughout the contest. This strategy led to the Saints sweeping the win 3 sets to 0. Although the Rams did not end up on top in this one, there were bright spots to take away from tonight's matchup, which is highlighted by NCU recording 4 Block Assists to the Saints' 1.
Key Performer(s):
- Hannah Fischer recorded 8 kills and 3 service aces to lift the Rams against a versatile Saints back row.
- Hallie Fuglestad managed to lead defensively for the Rams. Fuglestad statted 17 digs to stabilize a commanding attack from the Saints.
Looking Ahead
After falling to a record of 9-8 on the season (1-1
UMAC), NCU will look to get back into the win column this coming Saturday in Minneapolis, where they are set to take on the University of Northwestern, St. Paul Eagles. This is another premier volleyball squad has bestowed their dominance in the past against NCU, but the Rams will prepare the rest of the week to create noise and give the Eagles a hard-fought battle. With plenty more conference action in the upcoming weeks, the Blue and Gold is determined to not let the loss shift their mindset into what they are able to accomplish the rest of season.
