CHARLESTON, S.C. - Both the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs and the Winthrop Eagles made their way down to the Lowcountry this weekend to face off against the Head Coach Carry Brown's volleyball squad.
Friday evening, the first match of the weekend, between CSU and Gardner-Webb, began. The first set was a back and forth battle that eventually ended in favor of the Bulldogs (25-22). CSU's energy from the initial set certainly carried over to set number two as the Bucs stormed their way to a 25-19 set victory. Both squads got the opportunity to regroup and make adjustments after the battle's first two sets were complete. The third set was as close as it can get, a 26-24 victory for GWU. The Buccaneers had the opportunity to bounce back and tie up the match once again, and although they gave a valiant effort, they fell short by another 2 points (25-23).
Skylar Yates and Brenna Rowland led the team offensively against the Runnin' Bulldogs with 15.0 points a piece. The Bucs' lead setter, Ilaria Durante, led CSU in both assists (27) and digs (15).
Saturday afternoon, the Winthrop Eagles arrived at the Buc Dome to hopefully add to their undefeated Big South record.
The first two sets were quickly decided in favor of Winthrop. Although, the club from Rock Hill did not get to go home on an easy sweep. In the third set, the Bucs looked like a rejuvenated group. Multiple blocks, powerful attacks, and a great defensive effort put CSU up late in the set. The set and match were snatched by the Eagles, but CSU and the fans in the building got to see a glimpse of this group's potential.
Emily Struckmeyer was one block shy of tying her career-high as she recorded 6 in the match against Winthrop. Brenna Rowland hit an impressive .636 attack percentage on 11 attempts. Skylar Yates led the crew in both kills and digs - continuing to show her all-around ability as a leader on this Bucs' roster.
CSU will continue their five-straight home match run Tuesday, October 15, when they face off against the Blue Hose of Presbyterian College.
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