The Pirate volleyball team closed the first round of Western State Conference North Division play with a 25-20, 26-24, 25-18 sweep over Los Angeles Mission in Sylmar Friday evening. Kayla Murdoch's double double of 16 kills and 10 digs led the way while Makena Schaumloeffel recorded nine winners with five service aces. Autumn Rojelio picked up 19 digs and Ashley Johnson handed out 34 assists for the No. 9-ranked Pirates (14-2, 4-1).
After ascending back into a first place tie in the conference race on Wednesday, the Pirates needed the victory to maintain their standing.
VC captured the first set 25-20 before holding on to take control of the match with the second-set victory, 26-24. Ventura punctuated the sweep with a 25-18 triumph in the final set.
Kylie Ibbotson hit five winners in the match and Brianna Morrison was solid at the net with a pair of kills and three blocks. Talia Behrens recorded four winners in the middle.
The Pirates will begin the second round of WSC play on Friday Oct. 20, hosting Moorpark for a 6:00 pm contest at the Athletic Event Center.