WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - In a rematch of last year's USA South Championship match, the Southern Virginia University women's volleyball team clashed with Salem College, who ultimately spoiled the Knights' perfect conference record by claiming the win in four sets. 

With the home crowd behind them, Salem came out swinging in the first two sets. They claimed the first, 25-18, before five consecutive points at the end of the second frame vaulted last year's runners-up to a 2-0 set lead. 

A relentless Southern Virginia attack led by Anne Downs allowed the Knights to cut Salem's lead in half, winning the third set 25-19. Ruby Blamires recorded two aces during the final points to help the effort.

Defensively, Ryann Vail and Summer Hahn continued to rack up blocks. The Knights nearly tripled the Spirits in blocks, 13 to 5.

During a pressure-packed fourth set, the Knights found themselves with a 24-22 lead, on the verge of forcing a decisive fifth and final frame.

However, the Spirits had other ideas and rattled off four straight points to secure an important, early season win against the defending champs.

Anne Downs and Aubrey Packer led the team with 14 kills in the loss, while Summer Hanh's three solo blocks and Ryann Vail's five blocks assists were each game highs.

Looking Ahead

The Knights will look to get back on track this Saturday, September 27th when they face Meredith at 4:00 PM in Knight Arena. Southern Virginia produced a perfect 3-0 record against the Angels last season. 

For the most up-to-date information and details on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knightwvolleyball on Instagram.