Boiling Springs, N.C. – Winthrop volleyball remained undefeated in conference play after sweeping Gardner-Webb in straight sets (25-20, 25-13, 25-19 ). This win moves the Eagles to 13-4 overall and 5-0 in conference; Gardner-Webb drop to 2-13 and 5-0. Tonight's win was the Eagle's sixth straight over the Runnin' Bulldogs, going back to 2016 season. 
 
How It Happened
Gardner-Webb used the energy from a rowdy home crowd to keep up with the Eagles for the first ten points. Winthrop went on a 3-0 run for a 14-11 lead, forcing Gardner-Webb to take their first timeout. The Eagles maintained their three-point lead, despite the aggressive offense of Gardner-Webb, until a 5-1 final run brought them the first set victory. 
 
The Runnin' Bulldogs were off to a 2-0 start in the second set but struggled to stop a 5-0 Eagle scoring run and could not pull themselves out of the deficit. The Eagles cruised to a 2-0 match lead. 
 
An 11-8 lead by Gardner-Webb in the third set was their largest of the match so far. The Eagles kept their composure and used tough defense and strong offensive play to regain the lead and keep the lead through the end of the set. 
 
Inside the Box Score 
Winthrop was able to utilize their bench and see playing time for several Eagles. Nikkia Benitez led all attackers with 11 kills and a .417 hitting efficiency; Benitez added in 12 digs for the double-double. Sammie Jo Ah-Hong recorded a season high ten kills to join Benitez for double-digit kills. Siani Yamaguchi finished with 20 assists and 6 kills for a .857 attacking efficiency, while also setting her team to a .297 efficiency. 
 
Up Next
The Eagles have a week until their next match. They will host High Point next Friday, October 18^th, at 6:00 p.m. inside the Winthrop Coliseum. This will be there Pink Match and free t-shirts will be handed out to fans, while supplies last. Wear pink, get their early, and come cheer on the Eagles.