MANKATO, MN – The University of Mary used a career-best effort by Robi Binagi to finish strong in a 3-0 (25-6, 25-22, 25-20) road loss at Minnesota State. After a slow start, the Marauders found an offensive rhythm in the final two sets.
 
Entering the game in the second set Robi Binagi posted a team-leading nine kills for the Marauders. She also added an ace and three digs.
 
Down a set, the Marauders (2-14 overall, 1-7 NSIC) rebounded to out-hit the Mavericks (4-12, 3-5 NSIC) in the second set, posting a .231 hitting percentage on 14 kills with five attack errors to a .116 attack percentage and with 11 kills and six errors for MSU. UMary took a 16-15 lead on a Nehkyah Ellis kill before the Mavericks rolled off eight straight points to claim control. UMary rallied with five straight points to close within 23-21 but could get no closer.
 
The Marauders made a couple runs in the third set in hopes of extending the match, using a 5-point run to pull within 18-16 and a 3-point spurt to close within 22-20. The Mavericks recentered themselves to score the next three to claim the win.
 
Ellis finished with seven kills and six digs. McKenna Kirkpatrick had six kills and three blocks (two solo). Maddie Cooper added five assisted blocks. Kaia Sueker picked up 12 digs and dished three assists.
 
Emily Kern led Minnesota State with 12 kills, hitting .524 in the match with just one attack error and five blocks (1 solo).
 
The Marauders return home to host Minot State University on Tuesday, Oct. 4. Game time is 7 pm at the McDowell Activity Center.
 
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