ELKINS, W.Va. — Fairmont State swept Davis & Elkins 27-25, 25-17, 25-8 on Friday at the McDonnell Center. Fairmont State recorded 42 kills and 7 service aces, showcasing a strong offensive performance. 

Fairmont State initiated the first set as Joey Borelle's early kill from Belle DeVall set the pace. The visitors took advantage of a miscue by Davis & Elkins, quickly moving ahead 2-0. Despite some back-and-forth play, the Falcons maintained a slim lead through the mid-set, with Alexa Martin and Chloe McDaniel contributing key kills, pushing the score to 8-7 in the visitors' favor.

Midway through the set, the Senators mounted a challenge, briefly overtaking Fairmont State at 10-13 following a series of attack errors. Nevertheless, the Falcons found momentum with a series of successful plays, including an important kill by Adella Rodriguez, narrowing the deficit to 15-19. The visitors then capitalized on multiple service errors by the hosts, closing the gap.

As the set neared its conclusion, Fairmont State surged with a decisive 5-0 run, highlighted by consecutive service aces from Borelle. This run propelled them to a 23-23 tie, followed by a crucial kill from Gabi Smith to take a 25-24 lead. Josie Nobbe and Rodriguez secured the final points, allowing Fairmont State to clinch the set 27-25.

Fairmont State started the second set with a strong offensive push, taking an early 4-0 lead with key kills from Borelle and Zoe Ringer. Josie Skinn contributed significantly with assists, helping the team maintain momentum. Despite a brief response from Davis & Elkins, Fairmont State extended their lead to 13-5 through a combination of effective attacks and opponent errors.

The Falcons continued to control the set, with Smith delivering a service ace and Ringer facilitating multiple scoring plays. The Senators attempted a late rally, narrowing the gap to 18-13, but Fairmont State responded decisively. Nobbe and McDaniel added crucial points, and the set concluded with another attack error from the home team, securing a 25-17 victory for the Falcons.

Fairmont State capitalized on early momentum in the third set with a strong offensive display. Borelle initiated the scoring with a kill assisted by DeVall, setting the tone for a dominant run. Ringer's service ace and additional contributions from Borelle extended the Falcons' lead to 6-1.

The team continued to pressure with Borelle securing multiple kills, supported by effective setups from Ringer and others, as the Falcons widened the margin to 14-2. A brief rally by the Senators was unable to disrupt Fairmont State's rhythm. Elena Thompson and Rylee Burkhamer added crucial points, maintaining a commanding advantage.

The set closed with Fairmont State solidifying their control, as Borelle and Thompson registered decisive kills. The Falcons sealed the set at 25-8.

Borelle recorded 10 kills and added three aces, contributing significantly to the team's total points. Ringer set up the offense with 17 assists and added eight digs on the defensive end. DeVall also contributed to the playmaking with 10 assists. McDaniel efficiently posted four kills on five attempts.

Fairmont State (16-9, 4-4) remains on the road on Saturday, October 25 to take on West Virginia Wesleyan College. First serve is slated for 1:00 p.m.