The Chattanooga Mocs volleyball team defeated UNCG 3-1 to open Southern Conference play. UTC improves to 12-2 for the first time since 1986 and continue their win streak to eight in a row, the longest since 1999.
"Conference matches are always going to have a lot of emotions," head coach Travis Filar stated. "There's a lot of excitement and nervousness, so I'm really pleased with us coming out playing solid and focused."
Chattanooga started the match strongly by convincingly winning the first set 25-16.
In the second frame, the Mocs were never down by more than three points, pulling out a 25-21 victory.
The Spartans responded with an impressive 25-17 third frame, while the fourth set went back and forth. At 22-22, junior Allie Davenport (Tyrone, Ga.) hit a service ace followed by a kill. UNCG made an attack error and senior Sarah Batterton (Colbert, Wash.) wrapped up the match with a kill.
"We've found different ways to win tight sets this season," Filar said. "We extend the lead enough to make us a little more comfortable, sharper and keep the pressure on our opponent."
UTC posted 10 blocks compared to UNCG's five. Senior Lauren Gainer (Boca Raton, Fla.) paced the team with seven block assists and one solo.
"Our connection between our front and back row is allowing us to score points with blocks," explained Filar. "Our blocking put a lot of pressure on UNCG's offense, and that made a big impact."
Davenport led the squad in kills with 15 and a .429 attack percentage. Junior Kristy Wieser (Lincoln, Neb.) followed with 12, and Batterton recorded 11.
Senior Catherine Chason (Alpharetta, Ga.) had a strong performance from the backcourt, posting 37 digs. Sophomore Lauren Greenspoon (Houston, Texas) racked up 48 assists on the night.
The Mocs hit the court at Maclellan Gym again Saturday to face Western Carolina at 6:00 p.m. (E.D.T). Live stats and video are available for the match.