SHREVEPORT, La. – Southwestern was just one point from a sweep in their SCAC Championship semifinal match against Colorado College but was forced to a fifth set. The Pirates held strong and pulled out the win 17-15 in the final frame.

The Pirates took a crucial four point lead to open the final set and were up 13-10 but Colorado College refused to go away as they tied the match 13-13. Points were traded until Kate Mitchell gave SU a slim advantage and served the final point. After a huge dig by Brandi Campos Southwestern was able to take the match off an attack error by Keli Sherwood.

Southwestern (30-3) advances to the SCAC Championship match on Saturday and will face Trinity for a rematch of the 2015 championship bout. Game time is slated for 4:30 pm.

HEAD COACH DON FLORA ON THE WIN

"Seeing a team play with rhythm and following their game plan is so valuable.  We did a lot of quality things for a long period of time.  I give Colorado College kudos for battling and then the playing super clean volleyball in set four.  And as elite college volleyball should go, set five was a battle and a true team win."

STATISTICAL LEADERS

• KILLS: Kate Mitchell – 22
• ASSISTS: Nikki Welch – 49
• DIGS: Andie Alford – 27
• BLOCKS: Kirby Kincannon, Kate Mitchell: 4

TEAM BREAKDOWNS