Denver, Colo. – Regis Volleyball returned to Denver and RMAC play with a bang Friday, cruising to a three-set win over South Dakota Mines (2-15, 0-7) to advance to 15-2 on the season. Though the victory didn't come without a struggle, the Rangers remain perfect in league play thanks to a balanced attack and a patient defensive effort.
 
How It Happened: Fired up from the opening whistle, SD Mines came out ready to play. The visiting squad traded points with the tenth-ranked Rangers until an eight-two run midway through the opener had the Hardrockers up 15-9. Three-straight RU errors later on in the set assured a 20-15 Mines advantage, but the Rangers' patience prevailed. The home team notched eight kills to finish the frame, closing out the set with a sneaky six-point run that solidified the 25-23 come-from-behind win.
 
As they had in the first, the 'Rockers challenged the Regis squad in the second set with an early 4-1 lead. This time it didn't take long for the Rangers to respond. Behind the serves of setter Silvia Basso, RU rattled off seven unanswered points to go up 10-6. The Rangers owned the set from there, putting the Hardrockers on their heels with a wide-spread attack. The result was a 25-14 Regis win.
 
The Rangers came out of the break with resolve, sights set on a win and a quick end to the night. Before long, they held a 5-1 advantage – one they extended to 10-4 moments later thanks to a stout defense that held the Mines attack in check. The finale was never in question, as Regis cruised to a 25-12 win that included five Ranger blocks.
 
RU turned in the better offensive showing, tallying 47 kills compared to 30 from the Hardrockers. The Rangers owned the night defensively as well, with libero Kristina Schell lead her squad with 15 digs. Caitlyn Burroway, Nikki Kennedy and Kristen Hornung each totaled three blocks at the net, while Basso led all players with 33 assists.
 
Next Up For The Rangers: One more game remains on the schedule for the week – the Rangers will stay at home for a Saturday contest against Black Hills State. The Yellow Jackets enter the contest with a 6-10 overall record, 3-4 in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play.