BISMARCK, N.D. — The Winona State Volleyball team won its match in five sets today at the University of Mary. The Warriors won the first two sets (26-24, 25-22) before dropping the third and fourth (25-14, 26-24). Winona State would then go on to win a hard-fought match after winning the fifth set (19-17).
The opening set featured an early back-and-forth battle before Winona State used a serving run to build an 8-3 advantage. Mary responded behind Highum and Ruby Rengo, with Rengo's kill helping the Marauders pull even at 9-9. The teams traded points throughout the remainder of the set, and Mary fought off the Warriors' advantage late, but Winona State closed out the frame 26-24.
The Warriors carried their momentum into the second set, building an early lead and forcing Mary to battle from behind. The Marauders continued to find offense through Highum and Burke, while Boehmer helped distribute the attack. Mary stayed within striking distance late, but Winona State secured the set 25-22 to take a two-set advantage.
Mary responded emphatically in the third set. The Marauders took control early, with Highum delivering a series of kills and the defense creating additional opportunities at the net. Rengo and Klettheimer contributed key blocks as Mary extended its lead, while the Warriors struggled to find consistency offensively. The Marauders closed out the set 25-14, hitting .393 with 13 kills and just two attack errors to cut the deficit to one set.
The fourth set marked the match's most dramatic set. Winona State held a 19-15 advantage, but Mary battled back behind kills from Burke and Rengo and a pair of service aces from Highum. After the teams traded points to reach 24-24, Mary found the final two points to claim a 26-24 victory and force a fifth set.
In the deciding frame, Winona State jumped out to an early lead and looked to regain control, but Mary continued to fight to stay within reach. The Warriors ultimately prevailed 19-17 to secure the five-set victory.
CHECKING THE BOX SCORE
NEWS & NOTES
- Winona State is now 5-14 overall and 4-9 in NSIC play.
- UMary falls to 4-17 overall and 2-11 in NSIC play this season.
- Winona State is now 28-2 all time against UMary.
UP NEXT
Winona State will host the University of Jamestown Friday, Oct. 23 at 6 P.M. and Northern State University Saturday, Oct. 24 at 2 P.M. at McCown Gymnasium.
Stay connected with Winona State University Athletics all season long by following the Warriors on social media at @WinonaStateATH (X/Instagram), @winonastatewarriors (YouTube) and Winona State Warrior Athletics (Facebook). Catch full schedules, scores and stories at winonastatewarriors.com.
