Marshall, Minn. – No. 8 Southwest Minnesota State proved why it's ranked in the top 10 on Saturday afternoon, controlling the match with the Golden Eagles and winning in three sets.
 
Minnesota Crookston falls to 6-7 (0-5 NSIC).
 
Set One
Madison Carsten (Jr., OH, Wadena, Minn.) would give the Golden Eagles a 1-0 lead with a kill.
 
That early lead would quickly vanish, as the Mustangs would score the next three, but Abigail Ernster (Fr., OH, La Crescent, Minn.) would score on a kill, cutting the lead to 3-2.
 
From that point on, it would be all SMSU, who win the first set by 15.
 
Set Two
The second set would continue to be dominated by the Mustangs.
 
SMSU would score the first six of the set, but Emma Malek (Jr., MH, Plainfield, Ill.) would collect a kill to get the Golden Eagles on the board.
 
Minnesota Crookston would try to crawl their way back into the set, but the Mustangs would win the middle set by double-digits.
 
Set Three
SMSU would jump out to another big lead and wouldn't let the Golden Eagles back into the set, winning the final set and the match.
 
Individual Stats
Carsten led the way with four kills, while Malek added three kills on nine total attacks.
 
Carizma Muth (R-So., OH, Randolph, Wis.) ended the night with 11 digs, leading the Golden Eagles.
 
What's Next
The Golden Eagles will be back at home next weekend for homecoming, starting with Northern State on Friday night at 6 PM.