MINNEAPOLIS, -- After a lengthy streak of away matches, North Central University (NCU) women's volleyball team returned back to their own court on Saturday night, where they clashed with the Crown College (CC) Storm in a non-conference UMAC matchup. In a back-and-forth battle during the third and fourth set, the Rams managed to weather the Storm and take the match in dominating fashion, 3-1. Multiple players were impressive for the Rams tonight and filled up the stat sheet. This win against such a familiar opponent will be providing the Rams with massive momentum that will carry well into the UMAC portion of their season.

Game Recap

Coming out of the gate with a gritty mentality from the first service, the backcourt for the Rams was the storyline in this one. NCU showcased a solid defensive presence in front of their home crowd tonight. With all of the Storm hitters managing only single-digit kills on the entire match, NCU managed to let their defense spark their offense. The Rams' were led at the net by Emily DiGiorgio and Hannah Fischer, (pictured) who both gave the backcourt an opportunity to rotate well into all hitting areas of the Storm's attack. NCU dominated CC in multiple team categories on the night that included totals of 79 digs, 37 assists and 4 blocks. The numbers prove that the Rams gelled extremely well in multiple facets of the match to spark a 3 sets to 1 routing of Crown College. This victory has launched NCU to a very well-respected .500 record of 7 wins and 7 losses on the season.

Key Performer(s):

• Hallie Fuglestad highlighted the Rams' defensive display against the Storm's hitters, as she continued to showcase her stability and consistency in the backcourt. The Maple Grove Senior High School product has made an impressive showing onto the collegiate scene only halfway through her freshman season. With a total of 273 recorded digs already, she will continue to be a threat to opposing team's offenses.
• Alannah Easter and Rachel Beckman each split duties setting the ball tonight, but both did so in tremendous fashion. Beckman recorded 17 assists while Easter clipped 15 of her own. This dynamic duo at the net continues to play a massive part in the foundation of the Rams' offensive attack.

Looking Ahead

NCU volleyball is now set to enjoy a much-needed break from matches in the upcoming week. With a full week off from matches, it will give the Rams a great opportunity to review and gather themselves before their last non-UMAC matchup of the season. Next Saturday, the Rams will look forward to hosting an extremely familiar opponent, the Trinity Bible College Lions, who they swept earlier in the 2019 season. NCU volleyball continues to stir up excitement on campus with their incredible all-around team play. The Rams will strive to continue making noise as they head further into the season.