Pacific Lutheran University Athletics

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Northwest Conference leading Pacific Lutheran University volleyball team made quick work of host Lewis & Clark College on Saturday evening, downing the River Otters 3-0 (25-12, 25-13, 25-14) inside the Pamplin Sports Center for the Lutes ninth straight victory.

The visiting Lutes (13-2, 6-0 NWC) came out on fire, scoring five of the opening six points of the match. PLU led the rest of the set, breezing to a 25-12 win in the first set. 
 
Lewis & Clark (4-9, 1-5 NWC) led 6-5 in the second set before the Lutes ripped off seven straight, taking a 12-6 lead on a Savanna Colliado ace. The River Otters were unable to recover from that run with an Audrey Hansma kill delivering a 25-13 set win for the Lutes. 
 
The third set was tied at seven before Pacific Lutheran scored 12 of the next 14, marching out of the gym with a 25-14 victory to seal the program's fifth sweep in conference play this season. 

"It was a very good weekend for the Lutes," said Head Coach Kevin Aoki.

"Tonight was great because all 18 players got into the match. The 'ready team' was ready and we're looking forward to our matches with the Whits next weekend." 
 
Je T'aime Paio led the team with nine kills and no errors, boasting a .429 attack percentage while Alexi Eggert had six kills on 11 attempts. Shaela Allen-Greggs was nearly perfect with five kills on just seven attacks with no errors. As a team, PLU had a .413 hitting percentage, including a .591 mark in the opening set. 
 
Ayre Takamoto setup the offense with 28 assists while Macy Matsushima led the defensive efforts with nine digs. 
 
The Lutes return home on Friday, hosting defending NWC Co-Champion Whitworth University to kick off homecoming weekend. First serve against the Pirates inside Olson Gymnasium is set for 7 p.m.