McKenzie Schroeder's 18 Kills Help Franklin Defeat Manchester

McKenzie Schroeder’s 18 Kills Help Franklin Defeat Manchester

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Franklin Breaks Five-Match Skid Against Manchester in Four-Set Road Victory

Franklin women’s volleyball ended a five-match losing streak against Manchester on Wednesday night, securing a 25-23, 25-21, 20-25, 25-19 road win powered by an 18-kill performance from McKenzie Schroeder.

The victory lifts the Grizzlies to 19-5 overall and 4-2 in the HCAC. Prior to Wednesday, Franklin had dropped eight of its last nine meetings against Manchester.

We always know Manchester is going to be a loud, difficult environment, and the team responded incredibly, Dillon Taylor said. Step one in a huge week for this team.

How the Match Unfolded Set by Set

Schroeder established the offense immediately, recording kills on the first two points and three of the opening five. Manchester countered to take a 16-15 lead in the first set before Franklin responded with a 6-2 run. The Spartans tied the score at 23-23, but consecutive Spartan errors handed the opening set to the visitors.

The second set featured tight exchanges before a 21-21 deadlock. Franklin captured the final four points, sealing the set with kills from Leah Middleton, Schroeder, and setter Brionna Linkel. Manchester claimed the third set 25-20, never trailing in a frame that kept the hosts alive.

In the fourth set, the Grizzlies erased a 9-5 deficit, taking a 17-16 lead on back-to-back kills by Middleton. Breaking an 18-18 tie, Franklin closed out the match by winning seven of the final eight points, capped by consecutive kills from freshman Avery Smith.

Balanced Statistics and Upcoming Schedule

Middleton added 12 kills and Smith contributed 10 to support Schroeder’s monster attacking night. Linkel directed the offense with 27 assists, while Addie Smith chipped in 17. Defensively, Lily Gena anchored the back row with 11 digs, complemented by disciplined serve-receiving that kept the Grizzlies in system throughout the evening.

Franklin returns to the court on Friday at 7 p.m. to host Mount St. Joseph in another key conference matchup.

We have to stay composed and go one at a time, Taylor said, but this team is ready for a challenge.

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