Kirkwood Blocks Out Warriors

Ottumwa -- Visiting Kirkwood used strong net play to defeat Indian Hills in four sets at the Net Center on Wednesday night.

After dropping the first set, 25-16, Indian Hills regrouped and evened the match with a 25-17 win in set two. The Warriors broke open a close set thanks to the serving of sophomore Carly Wehling. Wehling served seven straight points as the Warriors opened up an 18-13 lead and IHCC went on to win, 25-17.

Indian Hills outscored the Eagles 9-2 in the third set to grab a 19-15 lead. With IHCC still on top, 21-20, Kirkwood scored the next three points, all on blocks. They went on to win the set, 25-23, and then closed out the match by winning the fourth set, 25-16.

Though disappointed with the loss, Indian Hills coach Terry Carlson saw some bright spots for his squad. "It was a good match, a hard-fought match and the girls really hustled," Carlson said. "If we can learn from losing, learn from our mistakes, we're going to get better."

Freshman Emily Eswonia led IHCC with 11 kills and Wehling had 17 digs. But the Warriors only managed two blocks for the match, compared to Kirkwood's 20.

Next up for Indian Hills is a trip to Rochester, Minnesota for a tournament this weekend. They'll play three matches on Friday and then advance to bracket play on Saturday.