Mixed results for Bronco volleyball

By Nicholas Pinkerton

Broncos 3, Spartans 0

The Broncos put on a show in front of a packed student section last Friday evening as they swept the San Jose State Spartans 3-0.

The Broncos jumped out to early leads, winning the first two games 30-21 and 30-18, respectively.

Despite being down 4-1 in the third game, they quickly rallied back to win 30-22.

Several hundred Santa Clara students huddled in the student section to cheer the team on.

"It was very fun for the girls to play in front of the crowd," said Head Coach Jon Wallace.

The Broncos had outstanding performances from many players, including outside hitters Brittany Lowe and Krista Kelley, opposite hitter Lindsy Evans and setter Crystal Matich.

Lowe led the way for the Broncos, earning 18 kills and collecting four blocks, both match-high statistics. She also totaled 11 digs, giving her five double-doubles on the season.

Kelley, a freshman, added 13 kills in what she referred to as her breakout game of the season.

UNLV 3, Broncos 0

The Broncos fell to the UNLV Rebels in three straight games last Sunday in the Leavey Center.

The Rebels won with scores of 30-24, 30-26 and 30-16.

In all three games, the Broncos found themselves down early.

And while the Broncos frequently put pressure on their opponent, the Rebels survived the mini-comebacks mounted by Santa Clara.

"We sure fought hard," said setter Crystal Matich. "It came pretty close, and we needed that extra little something."

Though trailing throughout the match, the Broncos maintained their composure and battled for every point.

"We have broken down in the past, and it doesn't work, and we know what not to do," said Matich.

The Broncos' tenacity forced the Rebels to earn the victory.

"I was a little worried that (the Broncos) came out with a lot of intensity," said UNLV head coach Allison Keeley.

Krista Kelley led the way for the Bronco hitters with 12 kills, while Crystal Matich registered 32 assists and 10 digs.

The Broncos hope to bring their best when they face conference powerhouses such as Gonzaga and San Diego later this season.

"It's got to come from within," said Matich. "It's not physical talent; it's all mental."

"We need to push through it, and I know we're going to have it by the time conference (play) comes," she added.

The Broncos will face Portland tonight at the Leavey Center at 7 p.m. and Gonzaga at 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Contact Nicholas Pinkerton at (408) 551-1918 or npinkerton@scu.edu.