MONTICELLO, Ark. – The UAM volleyball team got one step closer to clinching a GAC tournament berth tonight, defeating Southern Arkansas 3-1.

The Blossoms (5-21, 3-11 GAC) played well all night, answering every time SAU (15-14, 6-8 GAC) made a push to extend the match. UAM took set one 25-23, set three 26-24, and set four 25-22 to win their second-straight home match. SAU took the second set 25-19.

UAM was paced offensively by Amy Kleypas. The junior out of Crawford, Texas had 14 kills on the night and posted a .216 hitting percentage. Amy Bazemore finished with 31 assists and 11 defensive digs to lead in both categories.

SAU’s Becca Pate led the Lady Riders with 13 kills. Ashlie Arnold had a game-high 37 assists and Kahli Remy had a game-high 15 digs.

UAM took the match despite having a lower team hitting percentage in the four sets. The Blossoms posted a .114 percentage to SAU’s .152, owing mainly to the second set.

The Blossoms will return to Steelman Field House this Thursday as they host the Hendrix College. Game time with the Warriors is slated for 6:00 p.m.