Penn State walked away with the Golden Dome Invitational title after sweeping Notre Dame (4-5) in three sets. The Nittany Lions were victorious with scores of 25-17, 25-19, and 25-16. This impressive victory was made just hours after the team defeated Mississippi State (also in three sets — 25-16, 25-14, 25-12). With the takedown of host Notre Dame, the top-ranked Lions move to 8-0, with every win having come by way of sweep.

How It Happened

The Nittany Lions battled the Irish with fervor during the first set. While Penn State never relinquished the lead, it did find itself tied at 8-8. A combination of  Haleigh Washington, Megan Courtney, and Notre Dame errors gave the team the lead of 14-11. The Nittany Lions only allowed the Irish six more points before ending the game 25-17. The team hit .517 and was led by Courtney’s seven kills.

Penn State was off to a strong start in the second set, surging early to an 11-4 lead, thanks to supreme blocks from Aiyana Whitney/Heidi Thelen and Washington/ Bryanna Weiskircher. Notre Dame tried to make a comeback, coming as close as four points, but the Nittany Lions just couldn’t be stopped. They won the set 25-18. Courtney continued her dominant performance with ten kills and ten digs after two sets.  

Penn State continued its expert offense in the third set, but found itself struggling with a solid Notre Dame defense. The two teams remained close until the score hit 12-11 with the Nittany Lions up. From that moment, Penn State hit high gear and scored five points, only giving up one. Courtney ended the set with another kill and Penn State was victorious with a 25-16 win.

Notes

Penn State extends their undefeated season with an intimidating 8-0 record. Megan Courtney finished the match with 14 kills, 15 digs, and four blocks making this her third double-double of the season. The team finished with a .320 hitting average, the Irish’s average was .097. 

What’s Next?

The Nittany Lions will have a six day break before traveling to Tampa, Florida to face Auburn in the South Florida Invitational. The game will be held on Friday, September 18 at 6 p.m. On that Saturday, the South Florida Invitational will conclude with matches against St. John’s and USF.