Box Score Columbia, Mo. – The 13^th-ranked Cougar volleyball team defeated visiting Lyon College 3-0 in their American Midwest Conference (AMC) opener Friday evening. With the win, Columbia College moves to 5-4 (1-0 AMC) on the year while the Scots drop to 4-5 (1-1).

The two teams traded points to begin the first set, but with the score tied at four, the Cougars used an 8-0 run to gain separation. From there, Columbia never looked back and took the first set win, 25-11.

The second set played out much like the first with both teams keeping things close, but the Cougars took off once again and jumped ahead 15-7. The Scots worked to cut the deficit, but Columbia pulled away for the set two victory, 25-17, after hitting .450.

The Cougars raced out to a 7-1 lead in set three, but the Scots eventually pulled within two, making the score 10-8. However, Columbia dominated the rest of the set, winning 25-16.

Penny Liu, Eirini Chatziefstratiadou, and Maria Franco combined for 23 kills to lead the Cougars. Sashiko Heredia dished out 35 assists and anchored the defense with 11 digs.

The Cougars continue American Midwest Conference action Monday, September 14^th when they host Williams Baptist (Ark.) College. Game time is slated for 7:00 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.