Midwestern State University defeated Western New Mexico University in straight sets during their Lone Star Conference volleyball opener on Friday night at D.L. Ligon Coliseum in Wichita Falls, Texas. The match ended with set scores of 25-15, 25-19, and 25-19.
Western New Mexico started the first set with early momentum, highlighted by consecutive kills from Daphne Posthumus assisted by Hannah Haggard. This gave the team a brief lead at 3-1. Both teams traded points through effective plays, including a block by Brynlee Barris. However, Midwestern State took control midway through the set behind strong performances from Isabella Dickens and Jaiden Wright, eventually pulling ahead to win the opening frame.
In the second set, Western New Mexico opened with a defensive run featuring blocks from Barris and Jade Rampton and service aces from Jayden Hughes. Despite taking an early lead, they were overtaken as Midwestern State rallied to go up 8-7 before closing out the set thanks to late kills from Trinity Vinzant.
The third set saw continued efforts from Western New Mexico’s defense and offense but was again controlled by Midwestern State’s key plays and service aces. Late attempts by Western New Mexico to close the gap included blocks from Hannah Del Rio and Posthumus but ultimately fell short.
Statistically for Western New Mexico, Mikelle McAfee led with 22 digs over three sets while Barris recorded five total blocks (three solo) along with five kills. Posthumus contributed eight kills and four blocks; Hughes added two service aces and six digs.
For Midwestern State, Demi Stauffenberg tallied 15 digs along with seven kills and one ace; Alayna Guerrero provided 28 assists and five kills; Wright achieved a .571 hitting percentage on eight kills; Dickens added nine digs, six kills, and four blocks.
Following this result, Western New Mexico moves to a season record of 5-6 overall (0-1 in conference), while Midwestern State improves to 7-2 overall (1-0 in conference).
Western New Mexico will next play against Lubbock Christian at the Rip Griffin Center in Lubbock, Texas on Saturday at 1 p.m.
Western New Mexico University is part of NCAA Division II athletics within the Lone Star Conference. More information about Mustang Athletics can be found at www.wnmumustangs.com or wnmu.edu.
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