McLean County Times

The Illinois State volleyball team achieved a three-set victory over Indiana State at CEFCU Arena on Friday, witnessed by 1,706 spectators. This win marks the Redbirds' fourth consecutive triumph in Missouri Valley Conference play.

During the first set, both teams were closely matched, with Illinois State taking an early lead of four points at 14-10. Indiana State narrowed the gap to 15-13 before the Redbirds scored nine consecutive points to reach set point at 24-13. Despite a late surge from Indiana State, which brought the score to 24-18, a service error from the Sycamores handed Illinois State the first set with a score of 25-18.

In the second set, Illinois State quickly established a lead and maintained it throughout. A 5-0 run helped them extend their advantage to 11-6. The Redbirds never trailed in this set and eventually secured it with a kill from Megan Haynes, winning 25-15.

The third set was more competitive, with both teams tied at 16-16 before Illinois State took control with a decisive 7-2 run to lead 23-18. Although Indiana State responded with three consecutive points to close the gap to two points at 23-21, Khenedi Guest's kill sealed the match for Illinois State with a final set score of 25-22.

Key contributors for Illinois State included Khenedi Guest, who led in kills with fifteen and total blocks with three. Aida Shadewald matched her career high in digs with twenty-one, while Mekaila Aupiu provided thirty-eight assists and three service aces.

Illinois State outhit Indiana State .308 to .146 and has now won four straight home matches against them. The team's next match is scheduled against Evansville at CEFCU Arena on Saturday night.

For further updates on Illinois State volleyball, visit GoRedbirds.com or follow their social media channels.