Columbia, Mo. – The 2^nd ranked Cougar volleyball team was back in action tonight, hosting Missouri Valley College in a nonconference matchup. The Cougars took care of the Vikings in quick fashion, winning 25-17, 25-18 and 25-11 to improve to 5-1 on the season.

The Cougars came to the game with a spark, logging 16 kills in the first set compared to just nine by their opponent. Columbia continued their aggressive play in the second set staying in the lead throughout. The Cougars had a key block by Sidney Branson and Bailee Ulery, which helped keep the Cougars assertive at the net as they shut down the Vikings to take the second set. Columbia built a 15-point cushion in the third set, dominating the Vikings and sweeping the match.   
 
Branson led the way for the Cougars with 15 kills and seven blocks. Kiersten Anderson chipped in nine kills and 12 digs, Jacqueline Silva finished with eight kills while Luisa Ferreira dished out a match high 39 assists.

Columbia returns to the court on Friday, September 6 when they travel to Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis for a quad match. The Cougars take on No. 3 ranked Grand View University at Noon and Tabor College at 2:30 p.m. Follow the action live at columbiacougars.com.