ST. LOUIS—The No. 1 ranked Spartans closed out their time in Iowa on Saturday morning. They faced off with (RV) Clarke University, defeating them in three sets. This victory advances MBU to a record of 18-0.

The Spartans took the lead early on in set one. The Pride kept up throughout, but Missouri Baptist's powerful offense was too much for them to catch up. The front line continuously dished out kills, giving them set one, 25-20.

Errors impacted Clarke's chance at a close second set, allowing Missouri Baptist to roll out to another comfortable lead. The Spartans led by five (8-3) when Clarke used their first timeout of the set. This prompted a Spartan service error, however, they quickly regained control after a kill from Cameron Hibbler, followed by a service ace from the middle blocker (11-4). MBU continued to dominate, eventually taking set two, 25-17.

The tables turned in set three, as MBU seemed to be low on momentum. Spartan errors kept Clarke in the game, giving them hope for a fourth set. The teams battled it out, but the Spartans would ultimately come out on top, granting them the match in three sets (25-19).

Outside hitter Steven Rodriguez had an impressive performance, leading the match in kills with a total of 12 (.706 attack percentage). The senior also contributed two digs, two blocks, and four service aces.

Skyler Capllonch led the defensive effort, putting up seven digs for the Spartans, while setter Jason Harman clocked out at 34 total assists.

The men's volleyball team continues conference play next week. They will head to Parkville, Mo. on March 6 to take on the (3) Pirates before returning home to host Morningside (Iowa), Dordt (Iowa), and Briar Cliff (Iowa) on March 8 and 9.