Troy University Athletics
Trojans tackle Ragin Cajuns in Sun Belt Conference Push
10/30/2005 12:00:00 AM | Volleyball
A change in the lineup helped the Trojans (10-10, 3-6) maintain a level of consistency which aided the team in victory. Junior middle blocker Kristen Fleming (Lutz, Fla.) making her first start on the front row this season, recorded four kills and six block assists.
"Kristen did a great job in her first start today. She made several terrific swings and made blocks when we needed them," interim head coach Michael Izumi said.
The Trojans won their second game on a Sunday this season by winning game one 30-28. "Early in the first game, we would have a great series then let off the gas a little. In practice this season, we have worked on coming out strong to take the first game and I'm pleased in how the players performed," Izumi said.
Louisiana Lafayette would take control early in the second game never letting the Trojans have a look at the lead. Troy managed to get as close as 17-25, but the Ragin Cajuns went on to win 19-30.
Troy found its edge again in third game winning 30-24. "We know that we're not a hard hitting team. Defense and ball handling help us win the game carried us to the win.
In the start of game four, Troy stumbled out of the gate allowing the Ragin Cajuns to keep the score close and eventually race to a 18-26 lead. Off a Lafayette error, Troy began its rise from a 10 point deficit to seal the Trojan victory and continue its push towards the conference tournament in Murfreesboro (Nov 17-19).
Troy's offense was supplied by sophomore outside hitter Eliza Zwettler (Madison, Wis.) with 16 kills, and freshmen outside hitters Leah Tenney (Richland Center, Wis) 14 kills and Aubre Smith (Aliquippa, Pa.) with 10.
"Our serving helped take Lafayette out of sync," Izumi said.
"Its also the first time the team has rallied from a 10 point deficit to win this season."
Four Trojans recorded double-digit digs. Zwettlercollected 20 digs followed by sophomore libero Bridget Reidy (St. Charles, Mo.) with 19, freshman setter Meghan Washlow (Carpentersville, Ill.) with 16 and Smith totaling 12.
"With two weeks left of conference ball for everybody, all the remaining tournament slots are up for grabs. We know this week going on the road against North Texas and Denver, that we need to keep pushing for a spot in the tournament."
Trojan volleyball will travel to the Denton, Texas this week to play the Mean Green (Nov.4) and then fly to Denver to face the division leading Pioneers (Nov. 6).
When the Trojans return, the team will face South Alabama Nov. 11, then travel to conference leader Western Kentucky Nov.13, to end its regular season.
