SPRINGFIELD, Ohio - The Wittenberg Tigers proved to yet another foe why they have ascended to elite status again in 2005. The third-ranked Tigers improved to 5-2 on the still-young season with a quick 3-0 victory over Alma in the first match of the first-ever Border Battle, featuring the top small college teams in Ohio and Michigan.

Wittenberg, with losses to the top teams in the nation and wins over three nationally ranked squads so far on the 2005 season, swept the three games by scores of 30-19, 30-21, 30-23. The win was the first of seven in eight Friday matches for the Ohio side of the Border Battle.

Sophomore outside hitter Emily Bell was terrific, leading the charge with 15 kills and 21 digs. Sophomore outside hitter Jan Kehres added 13 kills, freshman libero Laura Fender chipped in with a match-high 23 digs and senior middle hitter Emily Dixon kept the defensive pressure on with five blocks.

Playing for the first time in 2005 with a one-setter system due to an injury to sophomore Ashley Anderson, the Tigers showed no ill effects. Sophomore setter Sarah Matesich distributed 41 assists.