ELIZABETH CITY, NC- The Chowan University volleyball team defeated Elizabeth City State University in three straight sets (25-20, 25-18, 25-18) on Wednesday evening. 
 
Nikira Fults led the Hawks with 16 kills in the win.  Karina Monroe and Monica Ruffin chipped in 10 kills apiece to help secure the victory.  April Wolfe collected 13 digs, combined with defensive efforts from Allison Smith and Cindy Ehrich who each tallied 11 digs.
 
Chowan and Elizabeth City battled for control in the first set.  The Hawks were able to pull ahead for good after trailing 17-19.  A kill by Monica Ruffin led to five straight points allowing Chowan to take a 22-19 lead.  From there, the Hawks maintained control of the momentum to cruise to a 25-20 win. 
 
The Hawks had a narrow 20-18 lead at the end of the second set, and Karina Monroe's kill led to five consecutive points for the Hawks to secure the victory.  A steady offensive attack from Nikira Fults, Karina Monroe, and Monica Ruffin led to a 25-18 win. 
 
The Lady Vikings quickly pulled ahead 12-8 in set three.  A kill from Allison Smith shifted the momentum back in favor of the Hawks en route to a four point rally to the knot the set 12-12.  The set would be tied once more at 13-13 until Chowan was able to pull ahead after Allison Smith's service ace.  The final score in the third set was 25-18 in favor of the Hawks. 
 
The Chowan Hawks move to 15-6 on the 2012 season, and 13-1 in CIAA play.  The Elizabeth City State Lady Vikings fall to 11-9 overall and 10-4 in league play after Wednesday's loss. 
 
Chowan heads to Shaw on Saturday to compete in a tri-match against Shaw and Claflin.  Match times are set for 11:00 am and 1:00 pm  respectively.