ROME, Ga.- The Shorter volleyball team defended their home court against Erskine Wednesday night, as they downed the Fleet 3-1 in a highly competitive match. 

The Hawks controlled the first set keeping a steady lead as they led by three or more points for the majority of the set. The Fleet tried to accumulate a comeback late but the Hawks offense proved to be too stout as they ended with a swift 25-23 victory. 

The second set was highly competitive as neither team gained an advantage. However, the Fleet's defense outdid the Hawks offense with a clutch block to end the set, forcing a fourth set.
 

The third set was another close one until Victoria Sparks went on an offensive onslaught to help the Hawks score six unanswered. After Sparks' outburst, the Hawks powered through taking the third set 25-14. The Hawks and Fleet went back and forth in the early going of the fourth set. However, the Hawks offense overpowered the Fleet's defense late, scoring three straight on defensive errors from Erskine to take the final set 25-19. 
 

Taylor-Reese Howell recorded a double-double for the Hawks at 10 kills and 11 points as Victoria Sparks was close behind with nine kills and 12 points. Helena Kelley and Brooke Thao for the ninth straight game recorded double-digit assists as Kelley led with an electric 23 and Thao right behind her with 18 herself.

The win improves Shorter to 3-5 overall while helping them jump to 3-1 in Conference of Carolinas play. 

UP NEXT

The Hawks will host Mount Olive this Saturday at 12:00 PM in another conference face-off before they hit the road for two weeks. 

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