Liz Mikos (Dundee, Ill./Jacobs) had nine blocks to lead a sterling defensive effort as the Crusaders beat UMKC 30-24, 30-21, 30-17 Saturday night at the Athletics-Recreation Center.

Valpo had 15 blocks in all, the fifth most all-time in a three game match, and won despite having fewer kills, fewer assists and fewer digs than the Kangaroos. Katie Bova (Milwaukee, Wis./Devine Savior Holy Angels) tied a career-high with six blocks, and Lauren Moulton (Elgin, Ill./Larkin) had six blocks of her own, including two solo.

Offensively, Valpo had its fewest kills of the season, only 36, and failed to put any player in double-digits. Jessie Fox (Granger, Ind./Penn) led the balanced effort with eight kills and Jessi Novak (Antigo, Wis./Antigo) was next with seven.

Vanessa Portella led UMKC (6-16, 4-5 Mid-Con) with a match-high 15 kills and Kristy Waltemeyer had a double-double with 24 assists and 15 digs.

The Brown and Gold (18-5, 8-1 Mid-Con) return to action Tuesday night for a non-conference match against Loyola in Chicago, Ill. The match can be heard live on 95.1 FM, WVUR, and online at www.valpo.edu/athletics.