The Gustavus volleyball team defeated St. Mary’s University in four games on Wednesday (21-30, 33-31, 30-28, 30-17). With the win, the Gusties improve to 19-6 overall and 8-3 in the MIAC and enter the MIAC playoffs for the first time since 2000 on a five-game winning streak.
Gustavus was led in their win by junior outside hitter Tara Houlihan who led all players with 23 kills on 51 attempts, while adding 14 digs. Senior defensive specialist Sue Dailey led the Gusties defensively with 16 digs, while first year defensive specialist Bri Alsides compiled nine digs and six service aces. Senior setter Rachel Batalden also contributed 51 assists, adding to her second straight season with over 1,000 assists.
With the win, Gustavus moved up to the fifth seed in the conference standings and will face St. Thomas in the first round of the playoffs in St. Paul. Start time is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 2.