Central Michigan University Athletics
Broncos Top Chippewas, 3-1
10/10/2010 12:00:00 AM | Volleyball
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MOUNT PLEASANT -- Senior Lisa Johnson had 26 digs and the Central Michigan volleyball team held Western Michigan in check offensively but couldn't capitalize in a 3-1 setback (25-27, 25-23, 25-20, 25-19) in Mid-American Conference action at Finch Fieldhouse on Saturday night.
The Chippewas (7-11, 1-5 MAC) held the Broncos (13-6, 4-2 MAC) to just a .198 hitting percentage but suffered from their own offensive struggles, connecting at just a .178 clip.
Johnson averaged 6.5 digs per set to help the defense keep CMU within striking distance, but in the end WMU was able to make enough plays to escape with a win.
The Maroon and Gold battled from behind in the first set to take a 1-0 lead despite trailing by four late, 21-17. The Broncos held set point at 25-24, but three straight kills, including two of senior Lauren Krupsky's team-best 15, gave the Chippewas the early lead.
CMU trailed by the same 21-17 score in the second set before rallying to tie the frame at 22, but this time WMU was able to hold Central Michigan off and even the match at a set apiece.
Western Michigan battled from an early hole to claim the third set and pulled away midway through the fourth set to close out the contest.
Sophomore Lindsey Dulude (13 kills) and junior Kaitlyn Schultz (12) joined Krupsky in double-figure kills for CMU. Sophomore Katie Schuette and freshman Jenna Coates each added 11 digs defensively. Schuette also had a team-best five blocks.
Western Michigan benefitted from ALi Gossen's match-best 16 kills and Lena Oliver's 21 digs.
Central Michigan continues its four match home stand next weekend against Bowling Green and Miami as MAC play continues.
