The Rams continued the momentum from last Saturday’s win against West Liberty as they improved their record to 19-6 and 8-4 in Mountain East Conference action Friday night.
The contest between the Knights and the Rams was one of Shepherds toughest matchups of the season as the outcome of the game was still up for grabs in the fifth set.
The Rams fell behind at home early as they dropped the opening set of the match to Urbana 25-21. Shepherd responded by winning the next two sets 25-22, and 25-14 as the Rams offense that we are used to finally kicked into gear.
The Rams defensive effort also came together at the right time. As a team the Rams had 58 kills on the night, which proved crucial to deciding the victor in a tightly contested match such as this.
Head coach Alex Hoekstra spoke on the defensive effort of the team when he said ” defensively, we were able to hold them to a low hitting percentage” That helped to disrupt the Knights rhythm offensively.
Rams setter Jessica Karcz had her highest assists total of the season as she recorded 52, as she was seemingly always around the ball.
The next closest in assists on the team was sophomore libero, Imani Major, with one recorded assist.
Karcz also added two blocks and an ace in an all-around performance against the Knights.
Rams outside hitter Peyton Lindblad added a personal season high 18 kills against Urbana, with fellow outside hitter Cambriea Hill adding 16 kills of her own.
Hill also registered a team high three blocks to go with 16 kills and 11 assists as the Rams came out with a balanced attack from start to finish, where everyone got involved in some capacity.
The Rams face the usual quick turnaround as their next game is Saturday, Nov. 4, at home against Notre Dame at 4 p.m.
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