McPherson Triumphs Over No. 5 Oklahoma Wesleyan in Four-Set Showdown
McPherson College’s volleyball team, ranked No. 9, secured a remarkable victory against No. 5 Oklahoma Wesleyan University in a crucial four-set match. The intense Top 10 encounter took place at the Holman Fieldhouse. Both teams entered the competition with impressive single losses for the season, hoping to continue their strong performance in KCAC conference play.
Match Overview
The match was anticipated to be fiercely competitive, and it did not disappoint. Oklahoma Wesleyan made the first move by leading 3-1 in the opening set. McPherson quickly responded, leveling the score to 3-3. The set was tightly contested with the Eagles eventually winning the set 26-24.
Set Two Turnaround
The second set mirrored the first, with Oklahoma taking an early lead. However, McPherson regrouped and fought back to tie the score at 3-3. The Bulldogs then created a decisive lead, finishing the set with a 25-17 win, thanks to an impressive performance by Brooke McHale.
Third Set Dominance
The Bulldogs seized control in the third set. After an evenly matched start leading to a 10-10 tie, McPherson surged ahead, prompting a timeout from their opponents. Despite Oklahoma Wesleyan’s efforts, a combination of steady plays and opponent errors handed McPherson a 25-18 set win.
Final Set Victory
McPherson carried their momentum into the fourth set. Despite a brief setback, they forged ahead to a 12-11 lead. Crucial blocks by Roxana Varela Parra and Kaylee Stegora extended their lead further. McHale’s sensational 24th kill ended the match, sealing a 25-19 victory for McPherson.
- Brooke McHale: 24 kills (season high)
- Enya Fierens: 15 kills, 4 blocks, 2 aces
- Roxana Varela Parra: 58 assists (average of 14.5 per set)
This victory boosted McPherson’s record to 22-1 overall and 5-0 in the KCAC. Oklahoma Wesleyan now stands at 16-2 and 5-1 in the conference.
The Bulldogs aim to extend their winning streak as they prepare to face Bethel College on October 15 at 7:00 PM back at Holman Fieldhouse. Volleyball fans are certainly in for another exciting match as McPherson seeks to maintain their strong conference performance.
