GRESHAM, Ore. - Despite losing its first set in nearly a month, Linn-Benton claimed the NWAC South Region title with a 3-1 victory over Mt. Hood Friday night.

The Roadrunners (25-2, 15-0) won by set scores of 23-25, 25-15, 25-21 and 25-28.

Eva Buford had 13 kills to lead Linn-Benton, while Shalyn Gray and Kennedy Kantola added 12 and 11 kills, respectively. Zaley Bennett (23) and Sydnie Johnson (18) combined for 41 assists on the night.

Linn-Benton won its 18th consecutive match dating back to September 11, following a 3-2 loss to Edmonds at the Walla Walla crossover tournament. Prior to tonight's first-set loss, the Edmonds loss was also the last time the Roadrunners had lost a set.

Linn-Benton secured the South Region title with tonight's win regardless of the outcome of Tuesday's regular season finale against Lane.

As the South Region number one seed, the Roadrunners will host the NWAC Volleyball Championship South Regional on November 13-14.

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Photos: Justin Lamb