BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The best thing to come out of Friday night's volleyball match for CSUB was an end to the gauntlet that was its early season schedule. The Roadrunners will not face another ranked NCAA Division I opponent the rest of the way after No. 28 Saint Mary's College picked up a 25-20, 25-9, 25-20 win in the Icardo Center.

The first 17 matches of CSUB's 2010 schedule featured opponents with a combined record of 128-77 (.624). CSUB's Division I foes the rest of the way are just 61-92 (.399).

Saint Mary's left its mark by hitting .400 or better in all three sets. The Gaels used an 8-2 run to open the first set before holding off a spirited Roadrunner comeback attempt. In set two, the Gaels blew open a 6-4 contest with a blistering 19-5 run to take control of the match. The third set was close throughout, but the Gaels eased away late for the win.

CSUB got seven kills and seven digs from junior outside hitter Lindy DeGeare (Stockdale HS), who led a balanced effort on both offense and defense. SMC senior Megan York was the only attacker to reach double figures Friday, finishing with 10 kills.

CSUB hits the road for its next four matches, beginning with a pair at Montana State Sunday and Monday. The 'Runners return home to host defending NAIA National Champions Fresno Pacific Oct. 12.