VALLEY CITY, ND  (NewsDakota.com)   Despite playing even volleyball with the opposition, the Vikings could not get a break to go their way Saturday, a fact illustrated by a wild finish.

The Vikings were turned away on 10 straight set point opportunities in the third frame, ultimately dropping a 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 35-33) match to Montana State-Northern Saturday at Graichen Gymnasium.

Valley City State had opportunities in each of the first two sets, but could not find the hitting rhythm needed, committing 30 errors in the match, while the Skylights committed just 11.

The final set saw the Vikings earn set point at 24-23, and again on every extra point through 33-32, only to be turned away by Montana State-Northern each time.  The Skylights closed the match on their first opportunity to take the sweep.

Danielle Hagler led the Vikings with 12 kills.  Macy Fridgen and Morgan Freije added 11, but that combination of players accounted for just two blocks in the match, with Freije earning both.

The Vikings host Rocky Mountain and Carroll College next weekend at Graichen Gymnasium.