Central Oklahoma Box Score
Newman Box Score

JOPLIN, Mo. – The Harding volleyball team opened the 2011 season with two wins Friday at the Missouri Southern State Invitational. The Lady Bisons defeated Central Oklahoma 3-0 and defeated Newman 3-0. Since joining the NCAA in 2000, Harding has opened the season with a 2-0 record six times.

In the first game against Central Oklahoma, Harding forced 27 hitting errors and had 51 digs as they swept the Bronchos 3-0.

Sophomore outside hitter Mollie Arnold led the match with 10 kills. Sophomore defensive specialist Weslynn Williams led the Lady Bisons defense with 16 digs.

The Lady Bisons found themselves down early in set one but a five point rally gained momentum to take set one, 25-21. Harding jumped out to a 12-3 lead in the second set and never looked back as they took the second set, 25-18. The Lady Bisons again took a 9-3 lead in the third set. Central Oklahoma battled back to pull within three but Harding went on a 5-0 run to take set three, 25-18.

Harding opened the second match of the day against Newman with a 10-2 lead and didn't look back as they swept the Jets 25-13, 25-13 and 25-17.

Arnold captured her first double-double of the season with 10 kills and 10 digs. Sophomore middle blocker Alyssa Short had eight kills and a match-high five aces.

The Lady Bisons defense held Newman to an -.010 hitting percentage, forced 19 errors and had 53 digs.

Harding will be back in action on Saturday as they conclude the MSSU Invitational. The Lady Bisons take on host team Missouri Southern State at noon and Quincy at 4 p.m.