Springfield, Ill. - The Missouri Baptist University women's volleyball team made two big steps in finishing the season strong, winning matches over Benedictine Springfield and University of Illinois Springfield on Wednesday evening.

In the first match against the Benedictine Lady Bulldogs, the Spartans went to work early. Lauren Stuckel led the offense, recording six kills, 18 assists and four aces en route to a 25-13, 25-11, 25-16 straight set victory.

Freshman Molly DeClue and senior Megan Moore also came up big for the squad. Declue finished with six kills and three aces while the Moore had another impressive match, recording a hitting percentage of .750.

The Spartans found themselves in a dogfight in the second match. After cruising to a quick 25-13 victory, NCAA Division II school, University of Illinois Springfield, came to life and would not go quietly. The Prairie Stars came back to win the second set 26-24 and breathe life back into the crowd.

However, as UIS rallied, the Spartans rose to the occasion. Casey Chernin, the senior and leader on offense, again put together a masterful performance just when her team needed her the most. Chernin recorded 21 kills, four blocks and 15 digs in the match.

The Spartans won set three, 25-21 and moved into the fourth set with momentum. Jessica Bowman came up big for the Spartans, adding 14 kills of her own, helping the Spartans to finish off the Prairie Stars 25-22. Bowman finished the night with a .435 hitting percentage.

MBU will finish the regular season tomorrow night on home court against a very talented Lindenwood University team. The Spartans lead the season series 1-0 against the Lions after winning their only previous meeting this season back on Sept. 7 in straight sets in St. Charles. Since that match, the Lions are 20-10, while the Spartans have gone 23-2.

Thursday's match will also be senior night at Missouri Baptist. All current seniors will be honored in a brief pre-match ceremony.