The 7th-ranked USU Eastern women's volleyball team overpowered North Idaho College, claiming a 3-0 victory on Thursday night. Playing on the road in Coeur d'Alene, the Lady Eagles defeated the Scenic West newcomers in straight sets with scores of 25-18, 25-20, and 25-9.
The Cardinals traded points with the Lady Eagles in the first two sets, however, USU Eastern caught fire in the third set as they scored 11 straight points to the 25 needed to complete the sweep. Agata Zwierzynska led the Lady Eagles notching 13 kills with a near flawless performance at a .632 hitting percentage. She was supported by Emilia Zug, who contributed 7 kills, and Lauren Hamilton, who added 5, underscoring the Eagles' offensive versatility.
Setter Agata Makowska organized the offense with 17 assists, consistently putting hitters in position to score, while Bird Allen chipped in another 12 assists. Rachel West was tough from the service line chalking up 3 aces. Eastern's serving game was a weapon all night, adding pressure to North Idaho's defense and limiting their counterattacks.
The Eagles limited North Idaho to a .118 hitting percentage. Audrey Atwood anchored the back row with 10 digs, while libero Marli Pearson recorded 9, effectively neutralizing North Idaho's attacking threats. At the net, Utah State Eastern's blocking was relentless, amassing a total of 6 solo blocks and 11 block assists, led by the efforts of West and Clara Philipsson.
North Idaho College struggled to find rhythm, despite a valiant effort from Morgan Claus, who led her team with 9 kills. Jordyn Williams added 8 kills but couldn't offset the Eagles' dominance. After a competitive first set, Utah State Eastern's defense stifled North Idaho in the third set, holding them to a -.229 hitting percentage.
USU Eastern (15-5, 4-0) will complete their road trip as they travel south to Twin Falls as they take on the College of Southern Idaho (7-12, 2-2). The conference matchup is set for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 12. Fans can watch the game live on the Scenic West Athletic Network.
