The volleyball team rebounded from their four game losing streak Friday night, with a win in four sets over Big Sky Conference rival, the Eastern Washington Eagles.

Originally the game was scheduled for a 7:00 start time but because of flight complications the Eagles didn’t arrive to Sacramento State until 6:15. The start time was pushed back to 7:30.

Much like their flight, the Eagles themselves showed up late to play. The Hornets stung early, going up 5-0 in the first set, later Sac State would lead 10-2. The first set ended 25-14, in favor of the Hornets.

As has been the case all season, defense was the Hornets strong point in this win. The team accumulated a total of 84 digs and limited Eastern Washington to a hitting percentage of .074, .095, .050, and .108 in all for sets respectively.

“Our defense is definitely our strong point,” said junior outside hitter Eryn Kirby, “it’s one of our biggest strengths.”

Sac State led 2-1 entering the fourth set. The Hornets scored first but four lead changes later the Hornets found themselves trailing the Eagles 9-12.

Four points, and a fifth and final lead change later the Hornets were in the drivers seat 13-12.

But the Eagles wouldn’t go away. Late in the fourth set the game was within reach for either team. The Hornets led 21-19 and the team was more than ready to face this situation.

“We’ve talked a lot in practice the last couple days about not looking at the score and not getting nervous in situations and being comfortable playing in any situation, any score,” said sophomore outside hitter, Janelle Currey. “And yesterday in practice we were practicing our side being up 21-19, which was exactly what it was in the fourth game and we practiced it over and over and over again and it came down to that exact situation tonight and we were prepared.”

The Hornets went on to take the set 25-22, and the game 3-1. Sac State is now 1-2 in the Big Sky Conference and is looking forward to the rest of their four game home stand.

“Our conference last year, and in previous years has been so close. The home games make a difference and you’ve got to be able to win matches at home,” said Head Coach Ruben Volta.

Tonight Sac State will take on another Big Sky competitor, Portland State at 7:00.

AJ can be reached at [email protected]