Yellowjackets Win Second-Straight Conference Volleyball Match

BILLINGS, MT – MSU Billings posted its second consecutive PacWest Conference volleyball victory Friday night, defeating Western New Mexico University 3-1 at Alterowitz Gymnasium.  With the win the Yellowjackets improved to 6-9 overall and 2-3 in PacWest play.  Western New Mexico falls to 10-8, 0-5.

Sophomore outside hitter Olivia Munro recorded a double-double with 21 kills and 20 digs to lead the Yellowjackets.  After struggling defensively early in the season, the MSUB defense was the key in Friday’s victory.  Three players notched over 20 digs as the Jackets held the Mustangs to a .145 hitting percentage.  Along with Munro, Mandi Paulson had 21 digs, Krissy Janney picked up 20 digs, and Ashley Jones added 16.  Janney also added a match-high 51 assists.

“Our defense led to some nice points tonight,” said Yellowjacket coach Pa’ulasi Matavao.  “We moved a little better on defense than we have so far this year and it set up some scoring opportunities.  When we had those opportunities, our hitters did a good job of finishing.”

Western cruised to a 30-20 victory in game one as the Mustangs’ offense was in high gear.  Kimberly Tano led the Mustangs with 19 kills in the match and added 15 kills for a double-double night.  Lisa Sevieri also posted a double-double with 15 kills and 15 digs, and Tamara Goodliffe added 10 kills.  Setter Malia Kului guided the Mustang offense with 46 assists.

The Yellowjackets defense was able to catch up in game two, shifting the momentum to the home team.  MSU Billings went on to sweep the next three games, 30-27, 30-25, 30-21, to take the match.  MSUB also won the last conference match it played, downing Hawaii-Hilo 3-2 on the road.

The Yellowjackets and Mustangs will square off again Saturday night.  Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. at Alterowitz Gymnasium.