Washburn earns forfeit win
The Washburn Cardinals volleyball team collected a key late-season boost, first earning a forfeit win on the road and then following it up with a hard-fought home victory that showcased their resilience heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Originally scheduled to travel to Mandaree on Tuesday, October 14, for a road matchup, the Cardinals were granted an automatic win after Mandaree forfeited the contest.
The result gave Washburn a clean result in the standings without stepping onto the court and provided a bit of unexpected recovery time midway through a busy October slate.
That additional rest appeared to pay off just six days later when the Cardinals returned to action at home on Monday, October 20, against a scrappy Kidder County squad.
In front of a supportive crowd, Washburn battled through a competitive match to secure a 3-1 victory (25-19, 17-25, 25-18, 25-23).
Washburn came out strong in the opening set, using steady serving and strong defensive coverage to stay in control.
The Cardinals held their composure during several lengthy rallies and pulled away late to earn a 25-19 win.
Kidder County responded in set two, tightening up their defensive rotations and taking advantage of some Washburn miscues to even the match with a 25-17 decision.