SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- 21 digs from Hanna Justesen and 18 digs from Kaylea Ahrens - each of which were career highs - paved the Augustana volleyball team to a thrilling five-set victory over Upper Iowa at the Elmen Center Saturday night.

The Vikings dropped the first set 23-25, won the second set 25-23, fell in the third set 18-25, before taking the next two sets 25-21 and 15-13.

"Incredibly proud of our team tonight," head coach Jennifer Jacobs said. "We fought, and showed grit and determination."

Four Vikings notched career highs in the win over the Peacocks. Courtney Place, a junior outside hitter from Okabena, Minn., knocked down a career-high 26 kills and nine digs, while Payton Rosendahl tied a career-high with 14 kills.

"After last night's match, we knew that we had to come out with a lot of intensity," Place said. "I thought we did that tonight. Tonight was one of the toughest matches I've played in. It was such a dog fight."

Senior setter Alex Banker tallied another double-double Saturday night. The senior from Omaha, Neb. had  58 assists to go along with 14 digs.

Ashley Wilson had another solid night in the middle. The senior scattered 11 kills, eight blocks and had five digs. As a team the Vikings had 27 blocks to Upper Iowa's 14.

With the win, Augustana improves to 18-7 overall and 9-6 in conference play.

The Vikings return to action Tuesday, Oct. 31 when they host Wayne State at 6 p.m. in the Elmen Center.