The Gustavus volleyball team gained a win over non-conference opponent Luther College in four games (30-23, 22-30, 30-15, 30-25). Junior middle hitter Anne Osthus led the way for the Gusties with 14 kills and three of the team’s 14 service aces. Senior libero Sue Dailey led all players with 23 digs. With the win, Gustavus improves to 16-6 overall and 6-3 in the MIAC. Luther was led by junior middle hitter Megan Santjer who led all players with 17 kills.
Gustavus and Luther played evenly through much of the first game, exchanging the lead until the Gusties took over at 11-10 off of two service aces from senior defensive specialist Jenni Tischer. A balanced attack was the key for Gustavus down the stretch as the Gusties gained a 30-23 win.
The Gusties again led by as much as five early in game two, but the Norse came back under the offensive direction of junior middle hitter Katie Hopp who gained six of her ten kills in the game. Luther tied the game at 16 before taking the lead for good en route to a 30-22 win.
The Gusties took back control of the match in a strong game three. Coach Kari Eckheart’s squad jumped out to a 10-5 lead that they never relinquished, leading by as much as 15 at four points during the game. First year defensive specialist Bri Alsides served nine Gustavus points as the Gusties won the game 30-15.
Luther took control early in game four, gaining a 10-6 lead. A balanced attack was again the key for the Gusties as they tied the game at 17 and then built a six point lead. Three late timeouts slowed momentum for both teams, but Gustavus edged out Luther for a 30-25 win.
Gustavus will resume conference play by hosting #14 Concordia College on Saturday in an important match for the Gusties. Start time is scheduled for 5:00 p.m.