JACKSONVILLE, ILLINOIS  — Stepping into non-conference play for the final time this season, the Central College volleyball team defeated both Lake Forest College (Ill.) and Illinois College Saturday afternoon.
           
Central (18-7) started by beating Lake Forest 25-12, 25-21, 18-25, 25-12 before sweeping the hosts from Illinois College 25-18, 25-18, 25-20
           
"We had some off moments in the first match but thankfully cleaned things up," coach Jeanne Czipri said. "In the second match I was really pleased with how well we sided out."
           
Outside hitters Gracie Pierson (senior, Lake City, Minn.) and Paige Sexton (sophomore, Sheridan, Ill., Serena HS) each had nine kills to lead the Dutch against the Forresters. Makayla Ribble (junior, Iowa City) had a team-high 22 assists. Colleen Kenney (junior, Taylor Ridge, Ill., Rock Island, Alleman HS) had 25 digs as libero and middle hitter Kaitlyn Mumm (sophomore, Waukee, Des Moines Christian HS) had five blocks.
           
Pierson added another 10 kills against Illinois College. Ribble also had 13 assists. Kenney had five of the team's 10 service aces. Ribble, setter Avery Rexroat (junior, Macomb, Ill.), Pierson and Kenney had six digs apiece.
           
"Gracie had a fantastic match offensively and serve received really well," Czipri said. "I liked some of the defensive plays we made, especially by our setters.
           
Central hosts Wartburg College next Friday at 6 p.m. for a critical American Rivers Conference match.