Rocky volleyball swept by MSU Billings on road

BILLINGS, Mont. - The Battlin' Bears fell in straight sets to crosstown rival MSU Billings on Wednesday evening.

How it happened

After a tightly contested start, the Yellowjackets grabbed momentum in front of their home crowd, utilizing an 8-1 run to open up a 12-6 lead. Although the Battlin' Bears fought back into striking distance, MSUB's efficient attack helped them preserve the cushion and close out a 25-18 victory in set one.

MSUB carried that rhythm into the second set, jumping out to an early 9-4 advantage behind strong net play. Rocky cut into the deficit multiple times, but another sharp hitting display from the Yellowjackets, who finished the set with a .400 hitting percentage, led MSUB to a decisive 25-16 win.

The third set produced the most competitive action of the night. Early in the frame, an Olivia Fauth kill capped off a three-point run to trim Rocky's deficit to 10-9. Down late, Fauth put the Bears on her back, putting down three kills in a four-point stretch to bring Rocky within one at 20-19 and prompt an MSUB timeout.

Following a Yellowjacket kill, an MSUB service error opened the door for Rocky. Fauth and Amelia Kisiel capitalized on the opening, powering a 3-0 run to give the Battlin' Bears a 22-21 lead and force another MSUB timeout. The Yellowjackets responded out of the break with back-to-back points to regain the lead, but a clutch solo block from Kaitlyn Wood leveled the set at 23-23. However, Rocky was unable to extend the match as MSUB answered with a kill and a match-ending block to complete the 25-23 win and the sweep.

Notable statistics

Olivia Fauth paced the Battlin' Bears with a team-high 13 kills while hitting .229, and Rylee McMillan directed the offense with 19 assists. Sadie Meier added six kills and eight digs to the effort, while Kaitlyn Wood tallied three blocks, including a crucial solo stop late in the third set. Overall, Rocky was outhit .114 to .295 on the night, with MSUB's Allie Dorman leading all players in the match with 14 kills, 13 digs and three service aces.

Up next

The Battlin' Bears (4-18, 2-14 Frontier) return home to the Fortin Education Center this weekend to host Mayville State on Friday and Valley City State on Saturday.