FORT WAYNE, Ind. – On Friday evening the University of Saint Francis Cougars (8-7; 2-1 Crossroads) played host to the Bethel University Pilots (9-6; 1-2 Crossroads) in Hutzell Athletic Center and prevailed in four sets by scores of 25-20, 20-25, 25-22, and 25-22.

In the opening frame, the Cougars got off to a rocking start as they jumped out to an early 7-2 lead before the Pilots had to call a timeout. The Pilots chipped away though and clawed their way back to cut the deficit down to one point midway through the set.

But then the Cougars went back to work and went on a six-point service run to extend their lead back. Saint Francis claimed the opening set by five.

Opening the second set though, the Cougars didn't start as strong as the Pilots battled hard to take an 8-5 lead early on before the Cougars had to call a timeout. Saint Francis then spent the rest of the set playing catchup and were able to keep within striking distance of Bethel but were never able to catch back up as the Pilots won by the same score as the opener to tie the match at one.

The third set started out as a 5-5 tie before the Cougars went on a five-point service run to regain the lead. Although the Pilots battled back to close the deficit to one on several occasions, the Cougars would not be denied as they claimed the third set by three to go up a game in the match.

In the fourth set, both teams exchanged blows as the margin was never greater than three points. Neither team was able to gain an edge until a service ace put the Pilots ahead 20-19. But the Cougars would have none of it as they came charging back to score on six of the last eight rallies to claim the set by three and win the match in four.

Throughout the match, sophomore setter Alexa Sparks led the team in assists with 44, while senior defensive specialist Maile Steckelberg led the way in digs with 21, and sophomore outside hitter Paige Fortkamp had a team-leading 21 kills.

The Cougars resume play on Saturday late afternoon as they host the Grace College Lancers (6-7; 1-1 Crossroads) at Hutzell Athletic Center beginning at 4:00 pm.

Cougar fans, stay updated with all events and recaps with USF athletics by visiting Saintfranciscougars.com or by downloading the Saint Francis Cougars app.