November 9, 2006
SIUE Survives NCAA Opener
 Kim Potthast |
November 9, 2006 HILLSDALE, MICH. -- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville volleyball made it a roller coaster ride in the opening match of the NCAA Tournament, defeating Michigan Tech 30-20, 27-30, 28-30, 30-8, 15-12. The Cougars improved to 28-5 and will next play the winner of second-seeded Grand Valley State and seventh-seeded Lewis. Both Grand Valley State and Lewis have registered victories over the Cougars this season. Kim Potthast posted a .500 hitting percentage with 21 kills, two errors and 38 attacks in the win over Michigan Tech. Emily Rahn led all hitters with 23 kills as she finished with a season-high 54 attacks. Rahn's return was a welcome sight to SIUE Coach Todd Gober as the sophomore outside hitter had been sidelined for most of the Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament semifinals and championship game. Mallory Clements posted her eighth triple-double of the season and third straight with 12 kills, 11 digs, and 56 assists. SIUE's defense had to step up after the Cougars were dispatched in games two and three. The Cougars responded with 104 digs for the match led by 20 from freshman Tiffany Turner. Rahn also finished 19. The Cougars struggled with Michigan Tech's front-row as the Huskies forced down 13 blocks. Jen Jung led Michigan Tech with 14 kills. Kali Jeter and Veronica Armstrong followed with 11 and 10 kills, respectively. The Huskies ended their season with a 15-15 record. SIUE dominated game four 30-8, sending it to the deciding game five. Jamie Jones, who had six blocks for the Cougars, recorded a key solo block late in game five. Jones hit .375 from the floor herself with seven kills. SIUE dominated the offensive statistics, with a 79-55 kills advantage. SIUE's 33 attack errors aided the Huskies. -siue cougars- |
