Briar Cliff University

The Charger women's volleyball team battled the No.14 ranked Morningside Mustangs Wednesday night at RVSC-Allee Gym, but the Mustangs earned a 3-0 victory over Briar Cliff, moving the Chargers to 10-6 overall and 1-4 in GPAC play.

Morningside jumped out to an early lead in the opening set, taking a 7-3 advantage before extending its lead to 14-7. BCU battled back, using a 3-0 run to cut the deficit to 14-10. The Chargers continued to fight and pulled within four at 17-13, but the Mustangs answered with a late run to close the set 25-15. 

The second set featured another competitive start, with Briar Cliff holding a 3-2 lead early. Morningside responded to take a 6-3 advantage, but the Chargers remained within striking distance throughout the first half. Briar Cliff cut the deficit to one at 9-10 before the Mustangs created separation with a 5-0 run. The Chargers continued to battle late, but Morningside closed out the set 25-17. 

Briar Cliff again battled early in the third set, fighting back from a 6-2 deficit to make it a one-point game at 7-6. Morningside responded with a 7-0 run to build a 14-7 lead. The Chargers continued to compete, cutting the deficit to 15-10, but the Mustangs pulled away down the stretch to secure the third set 25-14 and complete the sweep. 

Emma Brenelli led the Charger offense with seven kills, while Aliyah Rhynalds and Alexis Even each added four. Aubrey Hoeft contributed three kills and a team-high four block assists. 

Mia Torchia recorded 11 assists, while Reese Strouth added eight assists and a team-high 12 digs. Ireland Jackson contributed eight digs, and Korbin Olorndami added seven. 

The Chargers return to action on Friday, September 25, hosting the Hastings Broncos. First serve is set for 7:30 p.m.