ST. PETER, Minn. — The Saint Mary's University volleyball team (11-15, 4-6) went swing-for-swing with one of the top teams in the country Wednesday night, pushing nationally ranked No. 21 Gustavus Adolphus (23-5, 9-1) to the brink in each set before ultimately falling 3–0.

The Cardinals refused to back down from the Gusties, rallying throughout a back-and-forth first set that saw multiple ties and lead changes. Behind strong net play from Kali Olson and Paige Klug, Saint Mary's kept Gustavus within reach before the Gusties closed out the opener, 25–22.

The second set proved to be a thriller. Trailing late, the Cardinals stormed back with kills from Olson, Brenna Bruchert, and Klug, while Kinlee Grattan directed a sharp offensive rhythm. 

Saint Mary's erased a late deficit with three Sportscenter top plays in a row. Bruchert with two incredible backrow kills and Kali Olson's throw down in the middle grew the team closer and even held set point at 25–24, but Gustavus managed to fend off the rally, stealing the set 29–27 in extra points.

Gustavus carried the momentum early in the third, but once again, Saint Mary's dug in defensively. Ayla Olson and Maddie Baker anchored the block, while Grattan and Devann Clemens combined for key assists to keep the offense clicking. 

Despite several late runs, the Gusties edged the Cardinals 25–22 to secure the sweep.

Bruchert led the Cardinals offensively, registering a team-high 10 kills while Kali Olson registered three blocks.

The Cardinals postseason hopes hang by a thread, with no room left for error. Saint Mary's will look to keep those hopes alive in their regular-season finale this Saturday, traveling to Augsburg for a 6:00 p.m. matchup in a true must-win showdown with a little help throughout the league.