PHOENIX, Ariz. - The Vanguard Lions (4-1, 2-0) earned their first-ever victory over an opponent that had received votes in the national poll as they defeated (RV) OUAZ (5-2, 1-1) in straight sets: 25-20, 25-19, 25-23. This win would be the third in a row for the Blue and Gold as they only allowed 34 kills while the Spirit tallied 21 errors during the duration of the match. 

Vanguard was able to overcome their worst hitting percentage in a first set that featured ten ties and three lead changes. They turned things around in the second set as they posted 13 kills and only one error for a .462 hitting percentage; a stark contrast to the .154 hitting percentage that the Spirit would record in the second set. The Lions built a lead in the final set and would never yield it, earning the sweep and their third win in a row. 

"I was proud of how the group handled the travel day yesterday and their energy really carried over into tonight," said Head Coach Brad Rostratter. "We are starting to grow as volleyball players and as a unit. It really is awesome to see how far we have come since day one, but we are eager to continue to develop both as individuals and as a team."

Kyle Anema (SO/La Mirada, CA) would lead the Lions with 14 kills in 34 attempts to go with seven kills and three service aces. Christian Nowtash (SO/Vista, CA) finished with a .375 hitting percentage as he tallied seven kills in 16 attempts and three total blocks. GSAC Setter of the Week, Bryce Thompson (SO/Los Alamitos, CA) continued his fantastic play as he dished out 30 assists, had nine digs, and six total blocks. 

Next Game: Saturday, February 1st at Arizona Christian University at 1:00 p.m.

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