AUSTIN, Texas — In its home opener Wednesday night, the St. Edward's volleyball team defeated Texas A&M-International, 3-0. That match brings its season record to a perfect 4-0.
 
The Hilltoppers opened set one with a 9-0 run that ultimately proved too much for the Dustdevils to rally back from. St. Edward's allowed only four points in the first set and hit .529 as a team, while holding TAMU-International to a -.381 percentage.
 
Texas A&M-International would not go quietly in the second set however. After the Hilltoppers started with a seven-point margin early on, the away team fought back to come within three points at 18-15. Feeling some pressure, St. Edward's ramped up its offensive attack. The set finished 25-18 on a kill from Elissa Stanton.
 
The home team dominated the third set, starting off with an 11-0 streak and finishing with 17 kills throughout. The Hilltoppers also found a defensive stride in the final set with 19 digs.
 
St. Edward's recorded a total of 40 kills. Junior Hannah Rauch led the team in kills tallying 13. Tabitha Elder and Madison McClurg followed Rauch, adding six and seven kills, respectively. Kelly Jimenez had a total of 16 digs and Loren Kelly led the Hilltoppers with 27 assists.
 
Coach Sean Donahue was happy with the performance and execution of the game plan, but for him "the biggest difference was the crowd". He attributed the "student body's energy and excitement" to the Hilltopper success.
 
The St. Edward's volleyball team will attempt to stretch its win streak to 5-0 Saturday afternoon, as they take on St. Mary's at 12 p.m. in the SEU Recreation and Convocation Center. Live video and stats will be available on the Hilltopper Athletic Website.