The Metro State volleyball team (12-7, 10-2 RMAC) overcame a scrappy New Mexico Highlands team to earn a 25-17, 23-25, 25-18, 25-19 victory, Thursday night in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) play in Las Vegas, N.M.

Bri Morley led the offense with 18 kills, two aces and a block. Amanda Cook added 12 kills and libero Amy Watanabe had 15 digs and four service aces.

Metro State came out well in the first set, building an early lead of 10-5. NMHU chipped away to close the score to 15-13, but Watanabe served five straight points to push the 'Runners lead to 21-13. Morley ended the game with her fourth kill of the set.

The Cowgirls got out to a lead in the second set, holding the advantage at 17-11. Again it was Watanabe's serve that would spark the 'Runners, this time pulling them ahead 18-17. NMHU would not lie down though, fighting through to claim the set 25-23.

The 'Runners took control back in the third and fourth sets to close out the match.

Metro State has Friday off before facing Western New Mexico Saturday night in Silver City. The match has added significance with the release of the recent NCAA regional rankings. MSCD is currently ranked No. 6 and WNMU is No. 9 in the Central region. The top eight teams will advance to the NCAA Tournament.