WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- Salem tripped up the Methodist volleyball team, 3-1, in the USA South conference opener for both teams on Thursday evening.
 
The Monarchs took the first set, 25-22, before the Spirts knotted things up at one set apiece with a 25-21 win in the second set. Salem eked out a 27-25 win in the third set and the fourth set also went beyond 25 as Salem clinched the match with a 30-28 victory.
 
Ashley Beardsley led MU with 17 kills, while Cassidy Hayes contributed 14. Chyenne Pump totaled 10 kills and 22 digs for a double-double. She also contributed a pair of service aces. Maggie Harris led the team with 48 assists and added 18 digs, while Annabelle Ronelli had a team-high 33 digs.
 
For Salem, Kylie Taffer led the team with 16 kills, while Kathryn O'Connell chipped in 10 with a .385 hitting percentage. Hannah Delcamp and Lauren Holman split setting duties, racking up 25 and 20 assists, respectively. O'Connnell added nine total blocks, including three solo efforts, and Maggie Hawks had 43 digs.
 
The Monarchs are back in action this weekend, hosting Averett and William Peace in a tri-match beginning at 12 pm.