BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Houghton volleyball improved to 16-8 on the season after a 3-0 win over Hilbert College on the road Thursday night.

The Highlanders won 25-18, 25-16, 25-18.

Head Coach Nancy Cole was able to get some of her younger players key experience in the match. Three players contributed team-high eight kills on the night. Kayla Bernard (Aubrey, TX, Cisco CC) led in digs with 18, while Hattie Burgher (Selkirk, NY, Loudonville Christian) finished with 11 digs. Anna Coryell (Phelps, NY, Midlakes) spearheaded the attack with 28 assists.

Houghton now moves into a key conference tri-match on Saturday with Empire 8 Tournament implications. Wins against Elmira and Stevens and a loss by Ithaca on Saturday could give the Highlanders the top seed in the tournament. One win guarantees at least a spot in the top four. However, two losses could drop the team to fifth and out of tournament contention.