GOSHEN, Ind. – Coaches and fans often worry about how teams will do coming off a long break.
The Maple Leaf volleyball team – returning to action after a ten-day layoff – quickly put those concerns to rest as they rolled off a 25-20, 25-23, 25-18 non-conference win over Purdue University – North Central.
In fact, they began the match as if they had no rust at all. Goshen jumped to a fast 11-1 lead and while the rust eventually showed in some mistakes, the Leafs easily held on for a 25-20 win in the first set. Goshen pounded out 18 kills in the first set, hitting an incredible 50% as a team.
"Overall I was pleased with the way we played against PNC," said fourth-year head coach Jewel Lehman. "Since our last match we changed the line-up around a bit, so players seemed to be getting used to the new places a bit."
The second set was the game of adjustments as both squads changed their style of play to combat their opponent. The adjustments led to a much-tighter set, but the Leafs again made the most of their opportunities and took the second set 25-23.
"In practice we have worked very hard on finishing each game," explained Lehman, adding, "I thought this came through especially in that second game."
Making sure the match would not extend beyond the third set, Goshen closed the door on Purdue – North Central in a 25-18 final set.
"Our passing was pretty good and we attacked the ball very well," added Lehman. "Our level of communication on the court hasn't been as high as it could be....attention to that will only improve our game."
Junior Ashley Janssen led the Leafs with 14 kills, while sophomore Peni Acayo tallied 11 kills and nine digs.
Junior setters Allison Hawkins and Lindsey Nofziger split time to finish with 17 and 15 assists, respectively. Junior Brittany Herschberger finished the match with a team-high 11 digs to go with six kills.
Lehman concluded, "I am especially impressed that the players have stepped up the level of intensity in practice and that will translate into better play on the court as we move into the last half of our season."
Goshen is back on the court on Tuesday when they resume Mid-Central College Conference play at Grace College before hosting Bethel College, Taylor University – Fort Wayne, Indiana University – East, and Aquinas College for the Maple Leaf Invitational over the weekend.
Click Here For Complete 2008 Season News
|
