Cedar Rapids, Iowa – The No. 21 Central Methodist Volleyball program completed a three-set sweep over Mount Mercy University Saturday afternoon in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Central defeated the Mustangs by scores of 25-13, 25-18, and 25-11. The Eagles improve to 19-5 and 8-2 in Heart of America play, while MMU falls to 12-13 and 8-3 in conference play. 

Central Methodist set the tone early, taking the first set decisively. They showcased a .256 hitting percentage, led by standout performances from junior Mia Trankler and super senior Annabelle Maassen, who finished the match with eight and nine kills respectively.

Maassen's efficiency was particularly notable, finishing the match with a .241 hitting percentage.

In the second set, while Mount Mercy attempted to rally, Central maintained control with a consistent offensive attack and strong defensive plays. The Eagles ended the set with a .130 hitting percentage but were able to secure a 25-18 victory.  

The third set mirrored the first, with Central Methodist pulling away to finish the match with a 25-11 score. Their strong performance was highlighted by sophomore Martina Gonzato, who contributed nine kills and eight digs, and junior Joana Milho, who added seven kills and 19 digs.

The setting duo of Gabi Owczarek and Giulia Gainelli each dished out 18 assists and recorded identical dig numbers of six. Owczarek also tallied two service aces. 

Rita Campos led the defense with 21 digs while acing the Mustangs five times, also a team best. 

In the match, CMU recorded a total of 42 kills with 15 errors from 126 attempts, resulting in a kill percentage of .214. In contrast, Mount Mercy managed 23 kills but had 21 errors on 136 attempts, leading to a .015 kill percentage.

The Eagles will be back at home Friday, Oct. 18, welcoming Baker University to Puckett Field House with first serve at 7:00 p.m. Central won the first matchup between the two teams in four sets back on Sept. 24 in Baldwin City. 

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