Friday, September 13, 2002

Volleyball splits a pair on the opening day of the FIU Volleyball Classic

IU split a pair of games on the opening day of the FIU Fall Volleyball Classic. The Golden Panthers (4-5) defeated IUPUI in the opener, 3-2 (27-30, 30-32, 30-18, 30-26, 15-11).

In the nightcap, FIU lost to Florida State, 2-3 (18-30, 26-30, 34-32, 30-28, 13-15). The Golden Panthers had to overcome a back injury to star Nirvana Kos, who was out for the day.

For the day, FIU was lead by Adriana Fundora's 37 kills and 33 digs and Jennifer Owens 31 kills and 12 blocking assists.

FIU came back from a two games to none deficit to defeat the Jaguars (1-7), 3-2. After falling behind 2-0, the Golden Panthers dominated the third game 30-18, opening a 27-13 lead.

The fourth game was much closer as IUPUI tied the game at 20, when Charyln Ball-Llovera and Adriana Fundora sparked the team with two kills each for a 30-26 win.

Oksana Zablueva recorded four service aces, after the score was tied at three, in the deciding game. When Zablueva was done serving, FIU held a commanding 10-4 advantage to take game five, 15-11.

"I am proud of the team for the way they fought back," said head coach Cookie Stevens. "With Nirvana being out, some players had to step up the final three games."

FIU gave a valiant effort against FSU in its second game of the day. The Golden Panthers fought back again from an 0-2 deficit, this time coming up short, 3-2.

Without Kos, FIU received outstanding performances from Zablueva and Fundora. Zablueva stepped in for Kos and recorded 15 kills. Fundora took the Golden Panther attack over, with 19 kills and 12 digs.

FIU will play inner-city rival Miami on Saturday night at 7pm, right after Florida State battles IUPUI at 5pm.