Box Score Box Score

The third-ranked University of Minnesota Duluth clicked on offense all afternoon in sweeping No. 8 Southwest Minnesota State University in straight sets at Romano Gym on Saturday.

The Bulldogs (24-2, 14-2 NSIC) made just eight errors and hit .345 while holding their Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference rival Mustangs to a .115 hitting percentage. Sophomore middle blocker Monica Turner led the way for UMD with 14 kills on 25 swings without an error. She also assisted on a trio of blocks. Freshman middle blocker Sydnie Mauch collected six blocks on the afternoon for 11 on the weekend while also dropping in six kills. Sophomore setter Ashley Hinsch had 42 assists on the afternoon.

On UMD's senior day, fourth-year outside hitter Kate Lange hit a double-double with 11 kills and digs. She also collected her 98th career solo block while in on three for the match. Senior defensive specialist Elizabeth Benusa had four digs but a trio of service aces to lead UMD.

On the defensive end, UMD finished with 11 total blocks while SMSU blocked the Bulldogs just once. Junior libero Julie Rainey collected 19 digs while UMD had 58 on the match.

The Bulldogs will hit the road for the last time in the regular season next week for rematches with Winona State University and Upper Iowa University. UMD swept both teams at home in early October this season. Friday night's match at Winona is scheduled for a 7:00 p.m. opening serve.