Muskogee just what Pioneers needed

MUSKOGEE, Okla. – Coming off of a disappointing five-set loss to John Brown University on Friday night in Arkansas, a trip to Muskogee to face Bacone College is just what the Wayland Baptist volleyball team needed.

The Pioneers got back on the winning track and got playing time for everyone as Wayland eased to a 25-22, 25-15, 25-20 Sooner Athletic Conference victory over the last-place Warriors.

"Today's match saw everyone on the roster play," Wayland coach Jim Giacomazzi said.
 

Fallyn Berry had an ace and two digs. Kara Foreman had a kill, a dig and a block-assist.

"It was nice getting everyone some playing time. The reserves put just as much time in at practice, so for them to get to enjoy some court time helps them see what they need to work on."

Wayland (13-8, 5-4) was led by Mallorie Ellis' 11 kills, followed by Jade Jones with nine and Megan Sharratt with eight. The Pioneers hit .190 compared to .083 for Bacone (6-12, 0-8).

After a 31-dig performance against John Brown, Jordan Breding recorded 25 against Bacone. Ellis and Amber Daniel added 10 digs apiece, and Elisabeth Piroli tallied three aces and 38 assists.

"We need several folks to rest and get some kinks worked out before we hit next weekend," Giacomazzi said.

The Pioneers, tied for fifth place in the conference, are back in Hutcherson Center to host SAC newcomer Central Christian (4-12, 1-8) at 7 p.m. Friday followed by co-leader Oklahoma City (12-5, 8-1) at 11 a.m. Saturday. Central Christian fell in three to SAGU on Saturday while OCU went to Fort Worth and defeated third-place Texas Wesleyan in four.