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ROCK HILL, SC – The Winthrop volleyball team snapped its losing skid Saturday with a 3-0 sweep over the Bulldogs of Gardner-Webb University.

Winthrop improved to 8-11 overall and 2-3 in the Big South with the victory while Gardner-Webb fell to 7-15 overall and 2-3 in the conference.

"It was great to get a win today," head coach Julie Torbett said.  "We definitely gained some confidence today and looked a lot more relaxed than we did last night."

The first set was close throughout with Gardner-Webb always staying within striking distance, but couldn't mount a serious charge.  The Eagles took the first set 25-19.

In the second set, Winthrop led by only one at 15-14 before going on a 9-0 run to open a 24-14 advantage and took the second set 25-16.

Winthrop was on cruise control early in the third set, jumping out to a commanding 11-1 lead.  The Eagles increased their lead to 21-8 before Gardner-Webb made a big 12-2 run to get within 23-20.  After a Winthrop timeout the Eagles dug deep to get the final two points to win 25-20.

Three Eagles tied for the team lead in kills with nine: Stephanie Palmer, Amy Zimmer and Jennica Mullins.  Palmer also added 23 assists and Catherine Brusie led the team with 15 digs.

"Amy Zimmer had a great match today," Torbett said.  "We held her out last night and she came out very strong today and provided a much needed offensive spark for us."

Winthrop will continue with its home stand next Friday at 7 p.m. when the Eagles host the High Point Panthers.