CHARLOTTE, NC --The Jacksonville Volleyball team racked up 54 kills en route to a three-set sweep (25-20, 25-20, 25-20) over the Queens Royals Sunday on the road at Levine Center.
The Dolphins attack was paced by sophomore Claire Mrukowski, who finished with a career-high 22 kills on the day while Breanna McDonough, who had 17 kills. Kristina Nika led the team in digs with 21 and Ana Tobar had 10. From the front row, Mrukowski contributed five blocks.
How It Happened:
SET 1 | The Dolphins grabbed the first set 25-20 helped by a solid showing on the attacking end. Jacksonville put together a .364 attack percentage with 17 kills in the set victory. JUÂ rallied from down five at 15-10 to claim the win.
SET 2 | After their win in the first set, Jacksonville put themselves on the cusp of a sweep with a 25-20 victory in set number two. JU control of the set lead early on at 2-1 and never trailed. The 'Phins led by as many as six points at 18-12 before closing out the set, collecting 19 kills .
SET 3 | The Dolphins closed the match in a 3-0 sweep after winning set three. JU grabbed control of the set early when the score was 3-2 and never looked back to win 25-20. Jacksonville led by five points at 24-19 before finishing off the set, collecting 18 kills along the way.
Roth's Roundup:
"It was a great team effort this weekend. We have a lot of players who can make an impact when needed. Today in particular, Claire Mrukowski and Bre McDonough really stepped up, showcasing their incredible offensive skills. Their ability to read the game and find those key scoring opportunities made all the difference. We're proud of their performance and the energy they brought to the team." commented Head Coach Alicia Roth postgame.
Perspectives From The 'Phins:
"Our team is so special. We've faced challenges and made adjustments, but through it all, we've remained deeply connected. We have built such great trust and connections that it has helped us through it all. This game was about playing our game and style of play which we executed that very well. Â The depth on our team showed this afternoon and on Friday night. I am excited to get back into the gym and keep working!
- #16 Breanna McDonough
"I am able to step onto the court having confidence in my teammates to execute their jobs and have my back, and that makes my job easier and allows me to swing hard. As a team we were able to play freely and remained in control for the match to secure the sweep!"
-#8Â Claire Mrukowski
Game Notes:
-
Emily Hodsdon had a team-high two aces in the win.
- Jacksonville put together a strong attacking performance, notching 54 kills in the match.
- Dolphins attackers were helped by a match-high 41 assists from
Emily Hodsdon
Up Next:Â
The Jacksonville Dolphins will return to their home court next weekend for a pair of key ASUN matchups. The action kicks off on Friday, October 18th at 3:00 PM when they face off against Austin Peay at Swisher Gymnasium. The weekend continues with a second ASUN battle on Saturday, October 19th
at 5:00 PM against Lipscomb, also at Swisher Gymnasium.
