Box Score PITTSBURG, Kan. -- Pittsburg State's four volleyball seniors went out strong, ending the home portion of their season with a win on Friday (November 9) night. The Gorillas defeated Missouri Western in four sets, 3-1 (25-17, 22-25, 27-25, 25-12).

The Gorillas took the first and the fourth sets handily, as they led from the first point in both. The middle two sets were more challenging. In set two, Pitt State tied the game at 1-1, but once Missouri Western got the advantage point at 2-1, they never looked back. The Griffons led by as much as seven in the set, but Pitt State was able to cut the lead to three by the end of the set.

The third set was a battle to the finish. There were 11 ties and four lead changes, most happening near the end of the set. Missouri Western took the lead early and led by as many as four, as late as 16-12. From there, Pitt State began slowly to climb back, eventually tying the game at 18-18. The teams traded points, each tme Western would take the lead, Pitt State would tie the game. The Gorillas finally took the lead 24-23 on a kill by Brooke Fay. It was then Missouri Western's turn to tie the game after each Pitt State point. A kill from Paula Okrutna gave PSu the advantage and 26-25 and a Griffon attack error finished the set to give Pitt State the 27-25 win.

Nicole Rockhold performed exceptionally well in her final home match, leading all players with 21 kills and 19 digs. She hit at a .341 clip and also added a block and two service aces. Crystal Whitten added a double-double with 14 kills and 11 digs. Becca Pearson also had a double-double with 35 assists and 11 digs. Brooke Fay added 10 kills and Paula Okrutna, 11. Sam Wyatt led all players with 23 digs.

Missouri Western's Stephanie Hattey led her team with 15 kills. Sarah Faubel had 23 digs.

Pitt State are encouraged to stay after the football game in Joplin and cheer on the volleyball team as it will finish out the season on Saturday (November 10) evening with a 7 p.m. match at Missouri Southern.