The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
UAB
-33,00 CUSA
Samford
3-3,0-0SoCon
Blazers Fall to Bulldogs 3-1
9/4/2022 11:00:00 PM | Women's Volleyball
BIRMINGHAM –The UAB Volleyball team (3-3, 0-0 C-USA) fell to the Samford Bulldogs (3-3, 0-0SoCon) 3-1 on Sunday in Bartow Arena.
"While we are proud of how hard we fought tonight in front of an awesome crowd, ultimately we did not serve or pass well enough to win," said head coach Betsy Freeburg. The Blazers, despite their offensive and defensive efforts in the first two sets of competition, were unable to keep up in the fourth and final set."
In the first set, the Bulldogs took an early lead in the beginning moments of the competition. UAB would get within a six-point margin, however, the offensive efforts from Samford led the team to a 25-15 win in the first set.
The second set showed a momentum shift, with the score tying six times. A combination of kills from Alex Kells and Fernanda Maida put the Blazers within a three-point score margin. UAB trailed 14-19 before eventually fighting back with a thrilling 8-0 run. The set rallied back and forth before falling in the favor of the Blazers.
In the third set, the Bulldogs racked up an early 14-7 lead. They continued to keep the lead going, taking advantage of errors from the Blazers. UAB then had an energy change with another 6-0 run to put the score within 15-13. Despite this, the Bulldogs were able to take the set 25-19.
The fourth set mirrored the second, having the Bulldogs take control quickly, but the Blazers stayed in tow. A kill from Chloe Rodriguez would tie up the game at eight apiece. The score stayed within close quarters, with the Blazers and Bulldogs going through three lead changes before Samford would take the set and match with a 4-0 run.
"There were some bright moments as Fernanda Maida did a great job offensively, and Alex Kells contributed a double-double with over 20 digs. Kayla Hardy, Jay Collins, and Kelsey Smith provided great sparks off the bench, and we are glad they were able to get some experience in big moments and contribute." Said Coach Freeburg on the team's overall performance. "We still have a lot to figure out with regards to getting all 6 Blazers on the court playing well at the same time."
Stat leaders for the Blazers included Maida, who had 21 kills. Maia Rackel tallied four blocks and Lydia Canturk totaled 38 digs. Kells went for a double-double on the day with 10 kills and 21 digs.
"Our Blazer fans were loud and proud and fought with us until the very end. We are excited about what we are building in Bartow Arena, and they are a huge part of that! We're looking forward to resting and recovering the rest of the day and tomorrow and getting back to work on Tuesday." Said Freeburg. The Blazers return to action on Friday, where they welcome the Auburn Tigers at Bartow Arena at 7 p.m.
Purchase the 2022-23 Gold Card for $65 here. The 2022-23 Gold Card will get you access to all home events for Women's Soccer, Men's Soccer, Volleyball, Women's Basketball, Softball, and Baseball (Regions Field & Young Memorial). This card is not valid for Conference USA or NCAA Championship events.
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