The Drake University volleyball team improved to 2-0 with a convincing 3-1 win over visiting Western Illinois Saturday afternoon at the Knapp Center.
 
The Bulldogs rolled out to a 2-0 lead with 25-19, 25-17 set victories before dropping the third set 22-25 with various lineups. The Bulldogs recollected behind their starters to cruise to a 25-12 win in the fourth set to take the match.
 
"I thought it was really important to get a win today coming off last night," said Drake head coach Darrin McBroom. "It's so common to see a team have a big win, then turn around and get upset. I am glad our players were very steady today."
 
The win was also head coach Darrin McBroom's 100th career NCAA win at Drake, the second-most wins by a coach in program history. He also owns 177 career wins at the junior college level from his four seasons at Iowa Western.
 
"It is nice getting my 100th NCAA career win and to do it at home in the Knapp Center," McBroom said. "I want to thank all of the Drake players who have contributed to this!'
 
Senior Emily Plock led the Bulldogs again with 17 kills on 41 attempts, while junior transfer Lindsey Pliapol added 13 kills in her first significant action of the season. Freshman Jada Wills had 11 kills, 14 digs and three blocks.
 
Caitlyn Smith, Drake's primary setter in the first, second and fourth sets, turned in 33 assists with 12 digs. Libero Kylee Macke also was strong on Drake's defense with 12 digs, while Gillian Gergen added four blocks.
 
That defense held WIU to just .060 hitting and -.226 in the final set. That set also saw Drake's side out on 11-of-12 WIU serves.
 
Drake hit .192 in the win.
 
The Bulldogs close their season-opening homestand Sunday at 1 p.m. against South Dakota State on ESPN3. A limited number of fans will be allowed inside the Knapp Center per COVID-19 protocols. For more information on attendance and ticketing policies, visit DrakeTix.com.