MANKATO, Minn. – Minnesota State (5-5) lost to Winona State (9-1) on Saturday at the Taylor Center. The Warriors defeated the Mavericks in four sets, with a final score of 3-1.

The Warriors dominated the first set, winning 25-15. In the second, the Mavericks roared back, winning 25-21. The third set was hard-fought, but the Warriors edged it out, winning 25-21. Winona State finished off the match, closing out the Mavericks 25-13.

Toryn Richards led the Mavericks in kills, recording 11. Kiya Durant and Sophie Tietz followed close behind, each having nine kills. Durant, along with Emma Loveall and Avery Rosenberg all had a block. Brooke Bolwerk assisted on 30 of the Maverick's points. Ellie Kline had 32 digs for Minnesota State, a match high.

Winona State was led offensively by Sidney Paulson and Jayda Berg, who each had 14 kills. Sophomore Jaci Winchell recorded 42 kills. Beg and Taylor Pagel each had 2.5 blocks to lead the Warriors defensively. Kylie Welch had a match high five service aces.

"[Winona State] is a really good team," said Mavericks head coach Corey Phelps. "Despite the loss, we still had moments of greatness. For example, we played very well in the second set." Phelps made a point to speak about the team's energy. "We feed off our own energy… Each point there is increased pressure. We have to learn to work within the pressure and embrace the struggle. Live in the present."

The Mavericks return to the Taylor Center to take on No. 1 ranked Concordia-St. Paul on Thursday September 21 at 6 p.m. Minnesota State also unveiled its new Daktronics videoboard Saturday and 632 fans attended the home opener.