VOLLEYBALL

The Cougars of Mount Vernon Nazarene University snuck out of Platt Arena with a 3-1 win, 25-27, 25-22, 26-24, 25-20, over the HU volleyball team Saturday night to spoil the Foresters’ home opener.

Huntington came out firing on all cylinders to grab an early six-point lead on the way to outlasting their visitors in set one. The next two sets showcased long rallies and scrappy play that, much to the chagrin of Coach Herber and crew, eventually favored MVNU both times before the Cougars took set four to wrap up the W.

Brea Metz posted 14 kills to lead a balanced HU attack that also saw Abby Robinson (13) and Brandy Michie (10) reach double-digit kills. Lindsay Ingenito was also active in the middle with nine kills.

Three Cougar players recorded at least ten kills with Nicole Winkler taking home match-high honors with 18. Ashley Stumperth and Mary Kate Harmody finished with 12 and ten respectively.

“We didn’t shut down Mount Vernon’s outside attackers and struggled with passing,” noted Coach Herber. “When we are in system, it’s hard to stop us. Therefore, being able to utilize our middles off a solid first contact is crucial.”

Jennings Tacosik finished with a double double of 46 assists and ten digs. Ariene Butler chased down 18 digs.

“While we played well for three matches, we can’t be satisfied with competing,” said Herber. “We need to be satisfied with fighting every single point until we win the match.

“This match stings because I have an incredible amount of confidence in this team. We are going to pick up the intensity, raise the standards and dial in our fundamentals in our upcoming practices so that we take our game to a new level.”

The loss leaves Huntington (0-3, 0-3) still searching for their first victory. Herber and crew will look to get in the win column on Wednesday when they make the short trip to Saint Francis for a 7:00 p.m. matchup with the Cougars.