Box Score SIOUX FALLS, S.D.– Fighting for their first ever possible postseason appearance, the Minot State volleyball team needed a win Saturday afternoon against the University of Sioux Falls.

After winning the first set, the Beavers looked primed to get back in the win column; however, it was USF's Emily Johnson's night. Johnson recorded a match-high 26 kills and hit a scorching .417 from the floor as the Cougars beat the Beavers in four sets 21-25, 25-23, 25-20, 25-21.

"I am really proud of our team for the way they played tonight," said Minot State head coach Travis Ward. "Hats off to Sioux Falls for playing consistently throughout the match."

Johnson's career night led the way for USF but other Cougars did their part in the win. Kate Hart had 15 kills for the offense and setter Alex Reed notched 55 assists. Libero Andrea Odbert also had a good game for USF collecting 20 kills.

Minot State had a trio of hitters get into double digit kills led by Jen Dixon (Jr., OH, Brandon Manitoba) with 16 kills. Kelsey Wingo (Sr., MH, Twain Harte, Calif.) and Lauren Dunkle (Fr., OH, Aurora, Colo.) both chipped in with 12 and 10 kills, respectively. Setter Emily Byrne, who recently eclipsed the 3,000 assist mark in her career at MISU, added 47 more assists in the loss.

"I thought we made it tough for them," said Ward. "All around it was a good match. I wish a few balls had been called differently and went our way."

Minot State, who has now dropped three straight matches, will look to get back on track and make their way into their first ever Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Tournament. The Beavers must win both matches next weekend against two teams that receive votes in the national poll, Augustana College and Wayne State College.