Murray State
Eastern Illinois
Racers battle OVC leader EIU to 3-2 loss; Norris has 37 digs
10/15/2005 5:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
Freshman libero Heather Norris -- who has led the conference each week in digs per game -- repelled 37 against the Panthers tonight, the most for any Racer since Chandra Brashers claimed 38 on Oct, 4, 1997, against Eastern Illinois. It is Norris's second match of the season with 30 or more digs, having claimed 31 digs at Western Illinois on Sept. 10.
In tonight's match, in Game 5, Murray State (3-12, 1-7 OVC) trailed 7-3 before going on a six-point run behind the serving of freshman setter Kelsey Hubert, taking a 9-7 lead.
EIU (12-4, 8-0 OVC) pushed ahead 10-9, then, following a Panther service error, outscored MSU 5-1 down the stretch to win the game 15-11.
Freshman outside hitter Alison Mugler had a match-high 19 kills to go with 24 digs, claiming her eighth double-double in just 15 matches. Freshman outside hitter Alyssa Groves added 12 kills and 16 digs for her first career double-double.
The Racers were without its offensive leader, junior middle blocker Katie Kemezys, who missed the SEMO-EIU road trip with a back injury.
Freshman defensive specialist Ashley Meagher repelled 18 digs, while freshman outside hitter Lisa Forchee claimed 10. Junior outside hitter Allie Hunt had a team-high five blocks, while Hubert had four and Mugler had three. Hubert handed out 38 assists for the Racers.
The Panthers were paced by Megan Kennedy, who had 18 kills and nine blocks. Kara Sorenson added 17 kills, while Mary Welch had 15, Kera Griffin had 11 and Jessica Ackerman had 10.
Maren Crabtree had a match-high 41 digs, the most for any Racer opponent ever. Crabtree also handed out 63 assists.
Heather Redenbo had 25 digs, while Aja Kohlbecker had 19 and Welch had 14. Welch and Griffin had five blocks each, while Crabtree and Ackerman had three apiece. Crabtree also served up five aces for EIU.
This match concluded a four-match road swing. The Racers now begin a four-match homestand on Thursday, when Murray State hosts Tennessee-Martin. Opening serve is set for 7 p.m. at Racer Arena.
