Mustangs struggle against stingy defense

OMAHA, NEB. – As the Mustangs continue to make their way through the second half of their GPAC schedule, they are finally getting a look at some of the opponents in the southern group of teams in the league.  Today's opponent, the Flames of College of Saint Mary, lived up to their no. 11 ranking, defeating the Mustangs 3-0, 25-13, 25-10, and 25-18.

The Mustangs struggled to get into an offensive rhythm in CSM's Lied Fitness Center, striking for only 24 kills against the Flames' defensive front, which recorded eight team blocks in the match.  Emerson Smith led the team, registering eight kills against the stingy defense.  Meredith Hoffman followed with seven.  

Morningside did see improvement over the previous night's outing, ratcheting its service error statistic down to three in the set.

The Mustang defense made some noise for the visitors, recording 42 total digs, led by libero Payton Shoquist, who tallied an even dozen, and Smith, who followed with nine.  The front row recorded two total blocks, with the hands of Emma Schall in on both of them.  She was accompanied by Claire Wilson and Naomi Frazier, rounding out the team's total of four block assists.

Morningside faces the final first-time opponent on its schedule when the Mustangs are back in action on Saturday, Oct. 30.  Hastings College will visit Allee Gymnasium in the final home match of the season, slated for 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.  Morningside will honor its senior players prior to the start of the varsity match.