SIOUX CENTER, Iowa — Ottawa University pushed back after an early deficit and claimed the second set, but Dordt University used a strong offensive performance to defeat the Braves, 3–1 (25-18, 22-25, 25-20, 25-20) on Friday night inside De Witt Gymnasium.
The Braves were led offensively by a balanced attack from
Marko Zolnjan and
Petar Lazic, who combined for 36 kills in the match.
Set 1
Dordt controlled the opening set, jumping out to a quick 9-2 lead that forced an early Ottawa timeout. The Braves gradually chipped away at the deficit behind kills from
Petar Lazic and
Marko Zolnjan, closing within 23-17 late in the set. However, the Defenders finished the frame on the next two rallies to take the opener, 25-18.
Set 2
Ottawa responded with its strongest stretch of volleyball in the second set. The Braves used a balanced attack and solid serving to build a 12-7 advantage. Zolnjan delivered several key kills while Lazic added offensive pressure from the outside. Ottawa maintained control late, and a block by
Andrew Ely and Zolnjan sealed the 25-22 set victory to even the match at one set apiece.
Set 3
The third set featured several momentum swings. Ottawa built an early 8-5 lead and later held a 14-10 advantage after a kill from Zolnjan. Dordt answered with a late rally, turning a narrow deficit into a 22-19 lead. The Defenders carried that momentum through the final points to take the set, 25-20.
Set 4
The final set remained tight through the early stages with the teams tied at 10-10. Dordt then used a mid-set run to create separation and eventually extended the lead to 19-14. Ottawa attempted to rally behind kills from Lazic and Zolnjan, but the Defenders closed the match with a 25-20 victory.
By the Numbers
Who is Next
Ottawa (13-5, 8-3) is back in action on Saturday, March 7 in Sioux City, Iowa against (14) Morningside University. The match is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.
