Syracuse Volleyball Steps Out of Rut
By Annie Klaff
CitrusTV Volleyball Beat Reporter
CHARLOTTESVILLE, V.A. – Syracuse Volleyball broke its losing streak today with a strong 3-0 set win over Virginia. Prior to today, SU fell to third ranked Pittsburgh on Friday in three sets, resulting in a three match losing streak.
The difference between Friday’s match and today’s could very well have been the fact that Pitt is second in the ACC and UVA is second to last.
Syracuse pulled out a much needed win, but the Cavaliers kept it close. The first set was SU’s largest lead with a score of 25-19. Both sets two and three were only wins by a three point margin.
In team comparison, UVA didn’t let Syracuse secure the match easily. Virginia only had two more attack errors than the Orange and only six fewer kills. SU’s hitting percentage was .263, compared to UVA’s .176. Lastly, Syracuse recorded just 4 more digs and 1 more block than Virginia.
An important thing to note from today’s match was that sophomore Lauren Hogan did not see the court. After recording an impressive 29 digs against Pitt on Friday, it remains unknown for Hogan’s absence versus UVA.
Looking ahead to next weekend, SU challenges number three Pittsburgh again. This time however, the Panthers will be heading over to Syracuse. Luckily, the Orange can bring in some momentum from today’s victory. But, SU will need to gear up for the same team that held them to a combined total of 28 points in the final two sets.
Syracuse might have today’s close win going into next Friday, but keeping in mind that Virginia is second to last in the conference, focus and performance will need to be more than on point. Next weekend begins in the Women’s Building at 7 p.m. on Friday.
aklaff@citrustv.net | @annieklaff
