SILVER CITY, NM — Western N.M. (5-4, 0-0 Lone Star) swept Sul Ross St. (2-3, 0-0 Lone Star) in straight sets on Thursday at Drag's Court, winning 25-14, 25-12, 25-21.  

Western New Mexico recorded a .593 hitting percentage in the first set, leading to a decisive victory.

Western New Mexico opened the first set with a commanding performance, highlighted by Daphne Posthumus (Lelystad, Netherlands/CCNV Harderwijk (Netherlands)), who delivered five kills, four of which were assisted by Hannah Haggard (Tucson, AZ/Tanque Verde High School). The Mustangs capitalized on a series of scoring runs, including a 4-0 stretch early in the set, supported by Jayden Hughes' (High Rolls, NM/Cloudcroft High School) ace and Brynlee Barris' consistent presence at the net. With a final score of 25-14, Western New Mexico maintained control throughout the set, effectively utilizing strategic plays to secure the set.

Western New Mexico dominated the second set, showcasing a strong start with Daphne Posthumus (Lelystad, Netherlands/CCNV Harderwijk (Netherlands)) securing an early kill to set the tone. Hannah Haggard (Tucson, AZ/Tanque Verde High School) provided consistent assists, notably facilitating a three-point streak with Posthumus, culminating in a 15-9 lead. Kaitlyn Salgado played a pivotal role, contributing multiple kills, with her efforts helping extend the lead to 22-11. The set concluded decisively at 25-12, highlighted by an ace from Brynlee Barris and a final kill from Posthumus, sealing the commanding win.

The third set began with Western New Mexico taking an early lead, capitalizing on a kill by Daphne Posthumus (Lelystad, Netherlands/CCNV Harderwijk (Netherlands)) and quickly advancing to a 7-1 advantage. Mikelle McAfee's consecutive service aces were pivotal during this stretch. Despite Sul Ross St.'s attempts to close the gap, Western N.M. maintained control through consistent play, highlighted by Jayden Hughes' (High Rolls, NM/Cloudcroft High School) late kills. The set concluded with Brynlee Barris securing the final point, leading Western New Mexico to a 25-21 victory.

Daphne Posthumus (Lelystad, Netherlands/CCNV Harderwijk (Netherlands)) led Western New Mexico with 15 kills on 26 attempts, recording a hitting percentage of .538 and contributing 17.5 total points. Mikelle McAfee's defensive efforts were highlighted by 17 digs, while she also delivered four service aces. Jayden Hughes (High Rolls, NM/Cloudcroft High School) added to the attack with seven kills and one ace, while recording two blocks. Brynlee Barris posted 10 kills on 18 swings, finishing with a .500 hitting percentage and adding two blocks.

"Tonight was a great night to celebrate how far we came from our first weekend against them. Daphne Posthummus was brilliant in the middle to only have 1 error and lead our charge. It's a luxury to rely on Freshman like Daphne this year." - Head Coach Geno Frugoli

Cassandra Espinoza contributed significantly to Sul Ross St. with five kills and 13 digs, adding one service ace to her performance. Sarah Chavez matched Espinoza's point total, delivering six kills and capturing three digs. Eliana Mata was pivotal in setting up plays, amassing 13 assists without an error. Samantha Senak showed her defensive contributions, achieving five digs and adding two block assists, contributing to her 6.5 points overall.

Western New Mexico holds a 5-4 overall record. Sul Ross St. has an overall record of 2-3.

Looking ahead, Western New Mexico will host Eastern New Mexico at Drag's Court in Silver City, New Mexico, on Saturday, September 20, with the match set to begin at 1 p.m.
 

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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).