MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Northwest Missouri State University volleyball team secured its second straight 3-0 win over the Pittsburg State University Gorillas to complete a perfect home week.

Northwest won by set scores of 25-22, 25-20 and 25-16. Northwest is 8-10 overall and 2-7 in MIAA play. PSU dips to 8-11 overall and also 2-7 in league matches.

Northwest recorded 46 kills (.248 hitting percentage), including 16 in the final set.

Northwest Missouri State began the first set strongly, opening with a kill by Natalie Herrington off an assist from Ella Caffery. Despite an early exchange of points, Northwest Mo. St. kept pace with Pitt State, highlighted by kills from Gabrielle Gartner, who posted her second double-digit kill effort this season with a team-high 10 kills against the Gorillas, and Kasidy Mohwinkle, both assisted by Caffery. A brief surge, including blocks by Abby Bulthuis and a service ace from Mohwinkle, allowed Northwest Mo. St. to build momentum and take a mid-set lead.

As the set progressed, Northwest Mo. St. capitalized on a series of errors from PSU, extending their advantage. Caffery continued to distribute effectively, contributing to multiple scoring plays that included kills by Herrington and Bulthuis. Although the Gorillas managed a late rally to narrow the gap, Northwest Mo. St. closed the set with a decisive kill by Mohwinkle, securing a 25-22 set victory.

In the second set, Northwest Mo. St. turned the tide after an early deficit, highlighted by a series of strategic plays. Abby Bulthuis and Natalie Herrington blocked effectively, leading to a momentum-shifting 4-0 run. Ella Caffery's service ace and consistent setting facilitated a balanced attack, with key kills from Gartner and Herrington that kept the scoring tight.

Midway through the set, Northwest Mo. St. executed a crucial 5-1 run, capitalizing on Pitt State's errors and strong offensive contributions from Herrington and Gartner. Despite PSU closing the gap with a couple of kills, Northwest Mo. St. maintained their lead.

The set concluded with Ella Gunderson securing the final point, sealing a 25-20 win for Northwest Mo. St.

Northwest Missouri State opened the third set with a strong offensive push, marked by Gartner's kill assisted by Caffery, setting the tone early. The Bearcats capitalized on errors from their opponents, with Karsen VanScoy and Kate Frakes contributing defensively to increase the lead. VanScoy's performance was particularly notable as she led the Bearcats with 19 digs, marking her 18th straight double-figure dig performance this season. Gartner and Gunderson each added kills, supported by consistent setup play from Caffery, extending the home team's advantage.

Midway through the set, Northwest Missouri State maintained momentum with effective serves and blocks, including service aces from Caffery. Mohwinkle and Frakes added to the scoring, while the defense held Pitt State at bay with crucial blocks. Despite some pushback from the visitors, the Bearcats maintained a comfortable lead.

As the set closed, Northwest Missouri State continued to apply pressure with decisive kills from Herrington and Gartner, securing the set 25-16. This strong finish highlighted the Bearcats' ability to maintain control and effectively close out the match.

Ella Caffery contributed significantly with 37 assists, adding to her team's offensive efforts, and also recorded eight digs. Mohwinkle added seven kills and was active defensively with 12 digs, contributing to both the offensive and defensive plays. VanScoy was a defensive standout, collecting 19 digs over the match. Gartner led the attack with 10 kills, maintaining a hitting percentage of .471.

Up next for Northwest Missouri State is a matchup against Missouri Western on Friday at 6 p.m. The contest will take place in Maryville, Mo.