LISLE, Ill. — The North Park University men's volleyball team fell against nationally recognized Benedictine University in straight sets, 25-21, 25-23, 25-17, at the Dan & Ada Rice Center, but gave the Eagles a tough fight.

North Park opened the contest with early momentum in the first set, scoring the first two points and trading sideouts through the opening stretch. The Vikings stayed within reach most of the set, tying the score five times and pulling within 16-15 following a service ace by freshman setter Sebastian Castro. Benedictine answered with a late run, but North Park continued to apply pressure down the stretch, closing to 24-21 before the Eagles secured the final point.

The second set featured the closest battle of the night. After Benedictine built an early lead, North Park steadily chipped away. The Vikings fought back to within 24-23 on a kill by freshman outside hitter David Akeju, but the Eagles closed the set on the next rally to take a 2-0 match lead.

North Park again remained competitive early in the third set, staying within two points as late into the set as 15-13. However, Benedictine pulled away in the latter half of the frame, but the Vikings continued to compete through the final whistle, ultimately falling 25-17.

Senior outside hitter Adekunle Adebayo led the Vikings with eight kills, while senior middle blocker Jonah Johnsamson added four kills on efficient swings. Senior libero Zachary Hayden paced the North Park defense with six digs, and Castro recorded nine assists while directing the offense and contributing a service ace.

What's Next?

North Park (1-7) hosts a tri-match on Friday, February 6, welcoming Mount Union and Aurora to Carlson Gym.