BUENA VISTA, Va. - Looking to bounce back from their first conference loss of the season, the Southern Virginia University women's volleyball team used a quick start to defeat another conference rival, Meredith, 3-1 and remain undefeated at home.

In the opening stages of the first, the USA South's leader in blocks, Ryann Vail, combined with Emma Broadbent for three consecutive stuffs at the net.

Superb defense helped the Knights produce a lead as much as eight points before claiming the opening frame, 25-17.

Meredith battled hard to make the next set interesting, but Anne Downs and Daisy Oviedo led Southern Virginia on a late run to eventually clinch a 2-0 set lead.

Momentum shifted in the third. The Angels rattled off eight consecutive points after several attacking errors from the Knights. Despite a deficit as much as ten, multiple service aces sparked a huge Southern Virginia comeback, but Meredith managed to close it out and force a fourth set.

Great players tend to shine in pressure-packed moments, and Aubrey Packer along with Anne Downs certainly delivered in an important and potential final frame. The two combined for 11 kills in the fourth to spark the Knights attack, staving off a comeback bid from the visitors.

Downs' 12th kill eventually sealed the victory to put Southern Virginia back in the winners circle. Packer finished with a game high of 17 kills and chipped in with 11 digs while Emma Broadbent also added12 kills.

Defensively, the usual suspects shined for Southern Virginia. Ryann Vail tallied nine more block assists, a season high and the second most in a game in program history. Gracie Fulton was all over the court, recording 21 digs while showing tremendous leadership and poise on the floor.

Looking Ahead

The Knights now set their sights north for their next contest. They'll face Mary Baldwin on Wednesday, October 1st, at 6:00 PM. Southern Virginia has dominated the matchup historically, going undefeated against the Fighting Squirrels since 2010. 

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