Great Lakes Wire

Northern Michigan University (NMU) Wildcats secured a victory against Purdue Northwest in a four-set match, winning 3-1 in their second-to-last regular season home game. Earlier this season, NMU also won against Purdue Northwest in a five-set match.

Jacquline Smith led the Wildcats with 14 kills, 17 digs, and four blocks. Kaysie Bakke contributed significantly with a career-high of 12 kills. Liesl Haugen and Caylie Barlage each had 19 digs on defense.

"Purdue Northwest is always tough to play as they are a very scrappy team," said Barlage after the match. "I'm proud of the defensive effort and our hitters for consistently going up and being aggressive. Loved the never give up attitude we had tonight."

In the first set, NMU gained an early lead with contributions from Jacquline Smith, Meghan Meyer, Allie Barlow, McKenzie Gruner, and Bakke. Despite efforts from Purdue Northwest, NMU won the set 25-15.

The second set saw Purdue Northwest taking an early lead before NMU tied it at six points each. The Pride eventually won this set 25-18 after reaching set point first.

The third set began with strong plays from Smith and others like Barlow and Gruner. The Wildcats maintained their advantage throughout and took the set with a score of 25-14.

Set four was closely contested with both teams exchanging points evenly until late in the game when NMU pulled ahead to win 25-21 after another kill by Gruner ended the match.

The Wildcats will next face Parkside at Vandament Arena on Senior Day at 4:00 p.m.