By Daniel Whitehead

BUENA VISTA, Va.—Looking to avenge a prior loss to Averett University from earlier in the season, the Southern Virginia University women's volleyball team was successful in the feat by defeating the Cougars 25-21, 25-19, 23-25, 25-18 Friday evening at Knight Sports Arena in Buena Vista, Va.

Sophomore Shannon Romito was instrumental in the Knights' attack by leading the team with 10 kills on the night while freshman McKenzie Weaver and senior Shyanne Ison each contributed nine kills toward Southern Virginia's 49 for the evening.

"I'm happy with the win and the way the girls stayed grounded after losing the third set," said Southern Virginia head coach Paige Hiatt. "Although we weren't able to finish them off in three, I'm happy with the composure we had to take care of business in the fourth set. We had girls step up and lead the charge to help us get this win."

Senior Tori Tuttle and junior Kaitlyn Eaton each provided seven kills during the match, while sophomore Katelynn Tlustek guided the offense with 38 assists. Freshman April Bennett provided five service aces while Tlustek contributed another four. Bennett also had 15 digs to lead the team with Weaver and Tlustek providing 11 and 10, respectively.

Behind 11 kills during the third set, Averett staved off being swept as Allison Sparks led the charge with nine kills for the evening. Sarah Sparks earned eight kills while Shayna Keen had seven.

Southern Virginia returns to action next Wednesday with a road game at Mary Washington. The match is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start in Fredericksburg, Va.