(Editor’s note: Montana State University press release)
BOZEMAN – Junior Evi Wilson posted a team-high 17 kills to guide five Bobcats in double-figures as Team Blue recorded a 25-20, 25-10, 27-25, 25-21 win over Team Gold in Montana State’s annual preseason scrimmage, Tuesday night in Shroyer Gym.
Wilson, a product of Vancouver, Wash., hit .483 from the field. Also in double-digits were Natalie Passeck with 14 kills, while Hannah Scott added 11 and freshmen Serena Caspersen and Hailey Merkes chipped in ten, apiece.
“I thought our right-sides (Wilson and Caspersen) had a really nice scrimmage, each hitting over .400,” said second-year head coach Daniel Jones. “We had nice production from our outsides, as well. A big goal for us was to get some solid numbers that we can work on, look at, and breakdown with the athletes and move on from there.”
MSU’s trio of setters was paced by newcomer Carina Lehto. The transfer from Mississippi State dished out 33 assists, while Allie Lynch added 22 and Sydney Mathison 19.
“Offensively, we’re still finding our rhythm and the connection is there at times and at other times we need to work on it,” Jones said. “I thought we did a nice job using our toolbox and finding ways to produce points. The serving was strong, as well.”
Defensively, junior libero Allyssa Rizzo guided the Cats with 17 digs, while Passeck added 15 saves. Rizzo also posted a team-best four aces. At the net, MSU was led by McKayla Landreth with four blocks.
“Some of our defensive systems really came into play and we did a nice job with our execution,” Jones commented. “I’m really pleased to see the intensity which they approached the defense.
“It was a great night to get the jerseys on and experience what it’s like to be a Bobcat,” Jones added. “I’m all around happy and we’ll hit the gym again tomorrow.”
The Bobcats will hold its exhibition match against Carroll College on Monday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. in Shroyer Gym. The exhibition is free and open to the public.
