Title Defense Begins with Sweep

POCATELLO, Idaho - The reigning Big Sky champions began their title defense in style sweeping Montana State 3-0 (25-19, 25-23, and 25-15) to open conference play.

Idaho State took a 13-12 lead in the first set and never trailed again in the match. The Bengals have now won four consecutive matches and 12 of the last 13 sets.

"Overall I thought we played really well," Head Coach Chad Teichert said. "If we can hit like that all year we are going to be alright."

ISU hit .358 as a team, led by Tressa Lyman's 15 kills (.424). Makenzie Filer also posted double digits in that category with ten (.438). Lyman, Filer, Bailey Bars and Hayley Farrer each hit over .400

After winning set one, Idaho State appeared to be in control leading 19-10 in set two. However, the Bobcats made a run to close within one, leading to an Idaho State timeout.  The Bengals responded quickly, winning two of the next three points and closing out the set 25-23.

"They did what they needed to down the stretch," Teichert said.  

Tressa Lyman's 15 kills bring her career total to 990. She would be the 11th player in school history to reach 1,000.

Hayley Farrer led the team in assists (36) and blocks (4) while Kylee Sessions had a game-high 11 digs. 

ISU will continue conference play Saturday night at 7 p.m. as they host Weber State at Reed Gym.