GRAND FORKS, N.D. -- The Fighting Sioux volleyball team pulled out a thrilling five game victory over Nebraska-Omaha. The Sioux lost game one 24-30 and roared back to win an exciting game two 33-31. In game three, Nebraska-Omaha rallied back to win 30-26. In game four the Sioux showed their grit as they edged it out 30-28. In game five, UND came out firing on all cylinders; as they used that early momentum to steal the victory 15-11. The Sioux improve to 9-7 overall and 3-2 in the North Central Conference. The Mavericks fall to 11-5 overall and 0-3 in the NCC.
Leading the way for the Sioux was the hitting duo of senior Heidi Evans (Roseau, Minn.) and junior Kendyll Jones (Plymouth, Minn.). Evans set a new career high in kills with 23 and Jones contributed a season high 20 kills in the offensive effort. Freshman Britta Hanson (Thompson, N.D.) contributed with 14 kills and junior Tara Holmen (Berthold, N.D.) added 11.
Setting the way for the Sioux hitters was sophomore Allison Louwagie (Marshall, Minn.). Louwagie had a monster night as she set a new career high with 69 set assists. Louwagie also contribued six kills and 16 digs, which completed her fourth double-double of the season.
Defensively the Sioux had a very well balanced effort. Sophomore Lindsay Vortherms (Windom, Minn.) led the way with 28 digs, tying her career high, and senior Aileen Cahill (Blue Earth, Minn.) added 24. Evans completed her sixth double-double by finishing the match with 21 digs.
The Sioux will return to action on Saturday as they host Bemidji State in a non-conference match-up. Game time is set for 7 p.m. and will be played at the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center.
