MONTICELLO, Ark. — The Harding volleyball team opened Great American Conference play with a dominant performance Tuesday night, sweeping Arkansas-Monticello 3-0 at Steelman Fieldhouse.
The Lady Bisons improved to 8-1 overall and 1-0 in GAC action behind a balanced, multi-pronged attack led by outside hitter Ella Drake, along with middle blocker Philomina Klotz.
Harding set the tone early in the opening set, pulling away with sharp net play and efficient distribution from setter Olivia Wiedower to claim a 25-21 victory.
In the second set, the Lady Bisons continued to keep UAM off-balance. Wiedower directed an offense that hit over .345 for the frame, pushing Harding to a 25-14 win to take total control of the match.
The Blossoms attempted to rally early in the third set, but Harding's defensive effort at the net and back-row coverage from defensive specialist Mallory Weyand and Maddie Burrough quickly turned the tide. The Lady Bisons closed out the match with a 25-15 victory in the final set to complete the straight-set sweep.
Harding was led by Ella Drake who had 12 kills and hit .400 in the match. Philomina Klotz also had 11 kills. The defense was led by Mallory Weyand who had 16 digs.
The Lady Bisons return to Searcy on Thursday, Sept. 10, to open a home stand against Southwest Baptist at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. First serve is scheduled for 6 p.m.
