With four players recording double-digits in digs, the back row played a key role for the Clarkson University Volleyball team against St. Lawrence as the Golden Knights swept their Liberty League rival in three straight sets Tuesday night at Alumni Gymnasium.

The Golden Knights improved to 13-2 overall and will travel to compete in the challenging Stevens Ducks Invitational this weekend. The Saints dropped to 11-3 on the season.

While the game scores (25-15, 25-12, 25-23) might not indicate a tight match, St. Lawrence hit the ball to the back row with fury on numerous occasions, but the Clarkson defense was always up to task. If the defense didn't necessarily provide a quick turn around to the offensive, at the very least they kept many plays alive and frustrated the Saints' hitters. Senior Alison Schroeder (Webster, NY) led the way with 22 digs, most coming in the first two sets, while Erika Chin (Katy, TX) added in 14. Jessica Agnew (Queensbury, NY) was brought in mostly for her serve, but the senior provided a steady all-around match with 11 digs and 4 kills, all coming from the back row. Freshman setter Lani Durio (Austin, TX) had 10 digs to go along with her 29 assists, and classmate Holly McDaniel (Hacienda Heights, CA) also added in 9 digs.

Offensively, the Golden Knights limited their errors to nine in the match while recording 43 kills overall. Sara Artus (St. Regis Falls, NY) led the team with 12 kills (six in the first set, six in the third set), while Courtney Haines (Crestview, FL) contributed nine kills.

 I have to give a big compliment to the team for reclaiming their home court the way they did," head coach Johan Dulfer said. "I thought we came out ready to play and with a lot of passion. Our defense was the difference tonight; we didn't just dig a lot of balls, we dug balls in system and put a lot of pressure on the counter attack. It felt like we kept St. Lawrence on their heels all night. This match up is a great rivalry for both schools and it feels great to come out on top tonight.