NEWARK, DE -- Junior Megan Welch posted a game-high 55 assists to lead the University of Delaware volleyball team past CAA rival James Madison, 3-2 (23-30, 30-28, 24-30, 30-15, 15-9), Saturday afternoon at Barbara Viera Court.

The Hens sit atop the CAA standings after winning their first two conference contests and continue their best start in school history by moving to 10-0. The Dukes fall to 0-2 in the conference and 4-5 overall.

For the Blue Hens, junior Colleen Walsh recorded a game-high 23 kills while sophomore Kelly Gibson posted 15 kills to go along with 18 digs. Freshman Michelle LaLonde had 14 kills and senior Heather Ranck led the team with 23 digs. Freshman Kelly Matthias posted another solid effort with eight kills and a game-high eight blocks.

Delaware struggled early, falling behind two games to one for the first time this year. However, the Hens saved the best for last as they dominated the fourth game by doubling up the Dukes 30-15. Gibson recorded three of her game-high four service aces in a row during the fourth game. The Hens then went on to capture the fifth game 15-9.

Allyson Halls led the way for James Madison with a team-high 19 kills while setter Lauren Miles tallied eight kills and a team-high 54 assists for the Dukes.

The Hens will return to action Friday when they take on Delaware State. Match time is set for 7 p.m at Viera Court.

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