CHICAGO, Ill. – North Park men's volleyball hosted defending national champs and fourth-ranked Carthage College on Wednesday night, falling in straight sets (25-19, 25-15, 25-15).

The Vikings gave it their best effort against the fast-paced Carthage offense, playing a close opening set to a 19-19 tie. In that back-and-forth battle, Noah Salazar drove a kills while Teddy Gedville sent in two service aces in a row. However, the Firebirds tacked on the next six points to steal the set away.

Carthage dominated the next two sets with a .467 attack percentage and 16 kills in set two before a blistering .722 and 14 third-set, earning the straight sets victory.

Ty Ingrao led the Vikings with eight kills while Erik Bullard and Gedville sent in a pair of aces. Bobby Vaughn totaled two blocks. Carter Schmidt led the match with 14 kills for the Firebirds while Zach Bulthuis followed with 11.

What's Next?

North Park (7-6, 0-2 CCIW) will host Trine and Maranatha Baptist on Saturday, March 4, for a tri-match. First serve against Trine will be at noon.