Fighting Saints Fall to MACCRAY in Three Sets

KERKHOVEN, Minn. - The KMS Fighting Saints fell to MACCRAY in three sets Thursday, dropping a 25-20, 25-14, 25-21 decision in Kerkhoven. KMS mounted competitive pushes in the first and third sets, but offensive and defensive errors prevented the Saints from extending the match.

The Fighting Saints trailed by six points during the opening set before working their way back into contention. Their serve receive remained steady, but they struggled to turn good passes into consistent offense. Adjustments helped KMS cut into the deficit, though MACCRAY held off the comeback and closed the set 25-20.

Momentum proved harder to find in the second set. The Fighting Saints lost focus and committed too many errors, allowing MACCRAY to take control. KMS could not establish a sustained rally as the visitors pulled away for a 25-14 victory and a two-set advantage.

KMS responded with additional adjustments in the third set and stayed neck and neck with MACCRAY through much of the frame. The Saints showed signs of finding their offensive rhythm, but a handful of attacking and defensive errors created the separation MACCRAY needed to finish the match with a 25-21 win.

Maddie Silas led the KMS attack with 13 kills and added 10 digs, contributing in both the front and back rows. Avea Finstrom supplied six kills and the team's lone solo block, giving the Saints another productive option at the net. Leah Wagner distributed 12 assists while recording five kills of her own.

Emily Holtkamp passed effectively and made several saves in the back row to help stabilize the KMS defense. Sydney Everson also provided a lift off the bench, serving well and playing solid defense. Those contributions, along with the Saints' improved third-set play, gave KMS areas to build on despite the straight-set result.