Trojans survive late Lions' push

MARS HILL, N.C. - The Mars Hill volleyball team (14-3, 9-3 SAC) was defeated in four sets (19-25, 25-22, 17-25, 26-28) by Anderson (16-4, 10-3 SAC) Tuesday night inside Chambers Gymnasium.

The Trojans opened the match strong, hitting a game-high .283 in the first set, recording 17 kills on 46 attempts. With the score tied at 19, Anderson reeled off six straight points to go up 1-0 entering the second.

Mars Hill responded, taking the second set on a 3-0 run late in the frame to secure it by a score of 25-22. Mars Hill outhit Anderson .167 to .146 and forced the Trojans to make nine errors in set.

Anderson returned the favor in the third, forcing the Lions to commit nine errors and hit a game-low .021. 

The fourth set saw both teams hit over .200 with Anderson capping the match off at a .235 hitting percentage. Mars Hill fought off three match points to force extra volleyball, but were unable to stop Lilliana Kinder's match-clinching swing.

Anderson hit .204 on the night with Kinder's 16 kills leading the way, followed by Noelle Knutsen's 15.

The Lions hit .148 and were led by Jana Cuk's 16 kills and six blocks. Both Sarah Goddard and Jada Cannon added 12 kills apiece. Nikkayla Stewart added five kills and five blocks. Laela Jimenez led all players with 31 digs.

The Lions close out their four-game homestand on Friday, October 14 at 7 p.m. when they take on Newberry.