ST. JOSEPH – Missouri Western knocked off Fort Hays 3-2 (24-26, 27-25, 25-21, 26-28. 18-16) in a historic match at the MWSU Fieldhouse.  The Griffons outlasted the Tigers as four of the five sets would go to extra points. 

Lauren Murphy finished with 70 assist, setting a new program record for assist in a five set match. Missouri Western ended with 77 assist as a team, tying the second highest output in program history. Kayla Ruff also etched her name in the top ten list, as she recorded 31 digs, tying her for second most in a five set match.

An early 7-4 advantage in the second set would prove to be enough for MWSU as they evened the match at 1-1.  Another strong start in the third set had the Griffons in control before Fort Hays could rally.  Rachel Losch would knock down two kills to close out the set for Missouri Western.  The Tigers wouldn't go away easy in the four set as they fought off three game points to force the fifth set.

With a 4-0 run in the fifth set, the Griffons set themselves up to take the set.  Again, Fort Hays had a rally left in them but another Rachel Losch kill would stop the threat to secure the win for Missouri Western.

Rachel Friedrichs finished with 17 kills and hit .343 for the match.  Blair Russell and Kelsey Olion each added 16 kills as Shellby Taylor knocked in 14 kills with Rachel Losch's 11.  Tiana Butler recorded two aces for MWSU as well.

Missouri Western welcomes in #3 Nebraska Kearney tomorrow evening at 6 p.m. to the MWSU Fieldhouse.