BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — North Park battled nationally top-ranked Illinois Wesleyan on Wednesday evening but fell in straight sets, 25-16, 25-10, 25-21, at the Shirk Center.
The Titans improved to 17-1 overall and 6-0 in CCIW play behind a balanced attack that hit .292 for the match. Eleanor Palmer led Illinois Wesleyan with nine kills, while Carly Whitaker added eight kills on a .727 hitting percentage. Sophia Feeney and Lauren O'Brien each distributed 16 assists.
Illinois Wesleyan took control early, claiming the opening set 25-16 before using a 10-1 run to start the second set en route to a 25-10 victory. North Park found its footing in the third, staying within striking distance throughout and pulling within 24-21 before the Titans secured match point.
Senior opposite hitter Mercy Osayemi paced the Vikings with 10 kills and four total blocks. Senior setter Kendal Britton recorded 22 assists, while senior outside hitter Rian Hobbs and senior middle blocker Meg Rothermel each contributed six kills. Junior libero Xenia Gonzales anchored the back row with a match-high 15 digs.
What's Next?
North Park (8-11, 0-3 CCIW) continues with another ranked conference opponent on Friday, October 16, hosting Carthage at 7:00 PM inside Carlson Gym.
