Redbird volleyball rolls over Aces

Posted on October 7, 2016

ISU coach Melissa Myers and the Redbird volleyball squad cruised to a straight-set win at Evansville. (Photo GoRedbirds.com)

By WJBC Staff

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – The Illinois State volleyball team made quick work of Evansville Friday night as the Redbirds swept the Purple Aces at Meeks Family Court. Illinois State won by scores of 25-12, 25-18, 25-13.

Jaelyn Keene led all players with an efficient 13 kills, on just 19 attempts, while Ali Line also reached double figures with 10 kills. Aly Dawson and Lexi Wallen chipped in nine kills each.

Jacqueline Twing played a key role in the Redbird win, as the setter posted a double-double with 38 assists and 12 digs. Courtney Pence led all players Friday with 14 digs.

“Jac did a nice job of establishing our middles and spreading the offense tonight. We also had some good service runs that helped us create a lead in each set,” said Illinois State head coach Melissa Myers. “We need to build on tonight’s match and get ready for Southern Illinois tomorrow night.”

Illinois State (12-6, 5-1 MVC) got off to a strong start in the first set, using a five-point run to force an early Evansville (4-15, 0-6) timeout. Another five-point rally later in the set helped the Redbirds increase their lead and Illinois State took a 1-0 lead in the match when Keene notched her fifth kill of the match on set point.

A 6-2 start for the Redbirds in the second set forced another early Evansville timeout. A five-point moments later helped the Redbirds turn a 10-7 lead into a 15-7 advantage. The scrappy Purple Aces kept it close late, but the Redbirds made it a 2-0 lead heading into the break when Keene found the floor again on set point.

Illinois State may have saved its best for last, however, as the Redbirds never trailed in a lopsided third set. ISU hit .448 in the third set and finished strong, with back-to-back kills from Ella Francis sealing the sweep.

The Redbirds are back in action Saturday night, when they travel to Southern Illinois for a 7 p.m. match. Links for live audio and stats are available at GoRedbirds.com and fans can follow @RedbirdVB on Twitter for live updates.

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