MARSHALL, Mo. – The University of Saint Mary volleyball team defeated Stephens College 3-0 (25-9, 25-10, 25-21) and fell to No. 3 Park University (18-25, 18-25, 25-27) on the first day of the Missouri Valley Invitational Friday.

The Spires now sit at 9-6 overall on the season.

STEPHENS MATCH: The Spires easily took the first set against the Stars by a score of 25-9. Saint Mary jumped out to a 9-0 lead in the frame before an attacking error gave Stephens their first point. The Spires reached their largest lead at 20-5 after a kill from Cody Offerle. In the second set, both teams were tied at six apiece before Saint Mary rattled off five straight points. The Spires would continue to ride the momentum as they grabbed a huge 22-10 lead in the set after a kill from Hana Ronnebaum. Saint Mary scored the next three points and won easily, 25-10.

The third set was a little bit closer as Stephens held a 12-11 lead at one point. However, the Spires battled and would hold off a rally from the Starts to take the set, 25-21 to win the match.

Offerle led the team with 14 kills, while Haydan Heuermann had a season high 36 assists. Jessica Malizzi added 13 digs and Aly Camacho chipped in a career high seven total blocks.

PARK MATCH: Saint Mary faced their toughest test of the season in the nightcap on Friday and hung with the Pirates early on in the first set, holding a 10-6 lead. Park however was able to take the lead at 16-15 and rode it out to a 25-18 first set win. In the second set, Park went on a run and led 12-3 in the frame. The Pirates extended it even further and would win by the same result as in set one, 25-18 to take a 25-18 lead.

The Spires made a comeback in the third set, leading 22-20. Park climbed back ahead down the stretch however, and claimed the set 27-25.

UP NEXT
Saint Mary continues play at the Viking Invitational Saturday at 9 and 11 a.m.