PEMBROKE, N.C. – Kiara Cannon posted a game-high 10 kills but it was not enough as the Converse (5-20) volleyball team was swept by UNC Pembroke (8-15) on Tuesday evening in a non-conference matchup. The Braves were able to down the Valkyries by set scores of 25-18, 25-17, and 25-22.

Kaylee Owens and Morgan Pearson pitched in with nine and six kills, respectively, while Elizabeth Yohe stabilized the defense with a team-high 17 digs. Jordan Mrkvicka led the Purple and Gold with 15 assists.

The first set of the contest was back-and-forth over the initial 28 points, but with the score tied at 14-all, UNCP used a pivotal 11-4 run to capture the frame and take a 1-0 match lead. Just as the first set started the second was a mirror with the two teams trading the 10 points each. However, the Braves took a comfortable 21-14 lead following another 11-4 burst. A Cannon kill brought the score to within six (23-17), but Pembroke took the final two points and a commanding 2-0 match lead.

UNC Pembroke raced out to a 7-2 lead in set three, but an 11-2 run by the Vals gave Converse a 13-9 lead midway through the frame. Unfortunately, the Braves made a push and took the lead 19-18. From that point the Valkyries played catchup but were unable to force a set four, falling 25-22 in the third.

Converse will be back in action on Friday, October 19, traveling to Banner Elk, N.C. to take on Lees-McRae in a pivotal Conference Carolinas match. First serve is scheduled for 7 p.m.