The Master’s University volleyball team continued its memorable 2016 campaign Saturday night by beating Vanguard University in five sets (25-21, 25-19, 23-25, 22-25, 15-12).

TMU’s 2016 record improved to 12-5 and 5-1 in Golden State Athletic Conference play following Saturday’s victory.  Notably, the Lady Mustangs currently sit one match behind conference-leader and No. 3 nationally ranked Westmont College 17-0 (6-0) as the Warriors downed No. 13 Biola University in three sets Saturday night in Santa Barbara.

“We knew coming into this match that Vanguard was going to be a very strong opponent,” commented TMU head coach Allan Vince. “Vanguard is usually very good in their own gym and have always come with their best game against us. Tonight, our preparation and execution of our game plan was critical. Vanguard changed up their strategy in game three, and we had to learn how to adapt and take back control. In game five, we found a way to get back into rhythm and were able to put the match away. Saturday was a great learning battle. It helped us by showing us our weaknesses and what to work on in order for us to bring a strong game to Hope International.”

Aubrey Pyburn paced TMU with 20 kills, Kayla Sims tallied 47 assists, while Sarah Park posted 13 digs. Collectively, the Lady Mustangs claimed 63 digs, 63 kills, 57 assists, and a .213 attack percentage.

Additionally, Saturday marked the sixth time this season that the Lady Mustangs were forced to battle through five frames. TMU is now 4-2 in five-set matches.

On Tuesday, TMU will take a break from GSAC play and take on Life Pacific University. Frist serve is set for 7:00 p.m. in San Dimas. After Tuesday’s match, TMU will travel to Fullerton next Thursday for a 7:00 p.m. match against Hope International University.