Lions Clip Eagles Wings in NCCAA Tournament
ST. PAUL, Minn. (Nov. 29, 2007) – After their first match at the National Christian College Athletic Association’s (NCCAA) National Volleyball Tournament went so well, the Northwestern College volleyball team lost its momentum in their second match of the day, falling to #4 Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) in three games (30-23, 30-2, 34-32).

It didn’t take long to notice that the Eagles had lost their edge from the afternoon affair, as the Lions from SAGU- who lost to Indiana Wesleyan earlier in the day - took control early. Northwestern didn’t get any better either, which was proven by their -.024 attacking percentage in the second game.

Northwestern vastly improved their hitting percentage in the third game (.310), but the Lions held the upper hand, winning the decisive game in extra innings at 34-32.

Southwestern Assemblies had two players in double figures, led by Mallory Scott who recorded 15 kills. Brittani Toole added 10 kills in the win, as the Lions held a .215 attacking percentage together for the match. SAGU’s setter in Rachel Brown was just as solid as Scott and Toole, recording 35 assists.

NWC’s Laura Bicket had to work hard for 10 kills, which was a team-high. Steph Koth added nine kills on 26 attempts.

Both SAGU and Northwestern will resume play on Friday to determine the two teams that will enter the tournament’s semifinal round following pool play. Northwestern is set to face top-seeded Indiana Wesleyan in a 12 Noon match, followed by a 2:30 p.m. contest featuring Southwestern Assemblies of God and Bryan College.