NORTHFIELD, Minn. – The No. 12 Gustavus volleyball team made quick work of Carleton on Wednesday night, winning in straight sets 25-14, 25-22, and 25-10. The victory moves the Gusties to 11-2 overall and 2-0 in the MIAC, while the Knights fall to 10-2 overall and 1-1 in the league.
“Carleton played really tough,” Head Coach Rachelle Sherden said. “I was happy with our players because they stuck to the game plan very well tonight. They followed our serving plan, minimized errors, pushed the tempo, and kept emotions in check with a very vibrant crowd.”
Gustavus was strong on the attack, hitting a season-high .341 percent. Kate Holtan (So., Rochester, Minn.) led the team with 11 kills, totaling double-digit kills for the ninth time in 13 matches. As it always does, the offense ran through Nora Holtan (Sr., Rochester, Minn.) as she tallied 30 assists. Brittany Luethmers (Sr., Prior Lake, Minn.) posted nine digs and a team-best four aces, tying a career-high.
The Gusties started the first set with a 5-2 lead and never trailed. They also did not allow the Knights to score more than two-straight points the entire set.
After trailing early in the second set, Carleton battled back to take a 14-12 advantage, but the Gusties went on a 9-4 run and held on for a slim three-point decision. Tied 4-4 in the third frame, the Black and Gold took control with an 11-2 run and cruised to a 15-point match-deciding win.
The Gusties next host Bethel during their 50th season celebration at 3 p.m. Saturday.