MACOMB, IL - Western Illinois volleyball turned in a strong team performance Thursday night, taking down UT Martin 3–1 on the road at Skyhawk Fieldhouse. The win marks the Leathernecks' second Ohio Valley Conference victory of the season.

Set 1
Western Illinois came out with energy, taking control early behind kills from outside hitter graduate Keyana Cruse and right side senior Elizabeth Ziegler. The Leathernecks built momentum midway through the set with a strong serving run and solid defensive play at the net. Cruse capped off the frame with a kill to secure the 25–21 win and give WIU the early advantage.

Set 2
The Leathernecks battled throughout the second set but came up just short as UT Martin evened the match. Despite several key kills from Cruse and Ashlee Markert, the Skyhawks capitalized late to take the set 25–21

Set 3
WIU regained control in the third set with its most efficient offensive showing of the night, hitting .324 as a team. Cruse continued to lead the attack, while Markert, Ziegler, and junior middle blocker Hillary Estes added to the scoring at the net. Madelyn Norton directed a balanced offense, and the Leathernecks pulled away to take the set 25–18 and a 2–1 match lead.

Set 4
Western Illinois carried its momentum into the fourth, closing out the match with another complete performance. Ziegler and Cruse stayed hot offensively, while Grace Ulatowski anchored the back row with strong passing and timely digs. The Leathernecks controlled the tempo from start to finish, finishing the night with a 25–19 win to seal the 3–1 road victory.

The necks will continue their fight against the Skyhawks tomorrow at 4 pm.
 

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