IRVINE, Calif. – The Concordia University Irvine men's volleyball team competed against Vanguard Wednesday night as this is the third contest between the two teams. The Golden Eagles swept the Lions with final scores 25-23, 25-22, and 25-21.
 
Senior Uriel Batista led the Golden Eagles with 13 kills along with eight digs. The Panama native served up four aces marking a career-high than his previous of two last season. The aces came at crucial times for CUI to take the first set and to take the lead over Vanguard.
 
Freshman Gage Doble started on the outside for CUI and had six kills and one ace that went untouched. Johnny Anselmo and Slater Fuhrman contributed with five and two kills respectively while both digging up five.
 
Both returning middles Mason Mullins and Gil Herold made their presence known on the court as they tallied nine kills combined while hitting above .350. Herold came up big defensively adding five blocks including one solo.
 
Setter Nathan Biteau dished out 29 assists while Danny Smithers wore the libero jersey and led the Green and Gold with 11 digs and had three assists.
 
All three sets were a battle and toggled between the two teams. The score was tied 30 times and had 11 lead changes throughout the match. The Golden Eagles kept their momentum on their side and closed out all three sets to take the win over the Lions.
 
The Golden Eagles will be in the CU Arena on back-to-back nights starting Wednesday Jan. 18 against Princeton followed by Thursday Jan. 19 with slated start times at 7 p.m.
 
To see the full CUI men's volleyball schedule click HERE.