The ‘Cats had a mixed performance at their home doubleheader against Michigan State and Michigan this weekend, abominating the Spartans 3-0 but falling 0-3 to the 10th ranked Wolverines.
On Friday, Oct. 19, Northwestern (11-11, 1-9) returned to Evanston Township to face off against Michigan State (15-8, 3-7). In front of a raucous and supportive home crowd, the Wildcats won 3-0 in a stunning defeat and ended their eight-game losing streak.
The ‘Cats won all three sets closely, 25-21, 25-19 and 25-18. The girls played one of their best games yet. Sophomore Britt Bommer dominated in both kills and blocks, setting a career-high of four blocks in this game. Abryanna Cannon also showed out with one ace, two blocks, and nine kills.
The #B1GCats win the third set 25-20 to sweep Michigan State in straight sets! pic.twitter.com/uHTx9CnD0D
— Northwestern Volleyball (@NUVball) October 20, 2018
The win marked a milestone for Northwestern coach Shane Davis, who recorded his 300th career victory.
Tonight's win marks the 300th career win for head coach Shane Davis! pic.twitter.com/Ik5BdiixcH
— Northwestern Volleyball (@NUVball) October 20, 2018
Saturday's game started with the 'Cats wearing their pink breast cancer awareness uniforms, as they faced Michigan (18-3, 7-3) at ETHS. Going up against a top-ten team, the ‘Cats put forth their best effort against the strong Wolverines, only to lose 3-0 with scores of 25-17, 25-23, and 25-14.
Alana Walker and Cannon controlled this game for the ‘Cats, with Walker putting in five blocks and six kills, and Cannon getting three blocks, eight kills and one ace. Moreover, Ella Grbac had four blocks and five kills this game, following an equally effective performance the night before when she tallied five blocks and nine kills.
Northwestern has stepped up in defense immensely, which they demonstrated in both games this weekend. Their downfall in previous games was their inability to respond to tougher hits and maintain energy throughout all their sets, but they put up a good fight against the Wolverines.
The Wildcats next play at Iowa on Oct. 24 and at home against Ohio State on Oct. 28.