Tampa Uses Huge Comeback To Record Victory

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla - The top-ranked University of Tampa Spartans (15-1, 3-0), won what could be considered its biggest victory of the season when they defeated the Eckerd College Tritons (11-5, 2-3) in a thrilling five game match. The match saw the Spartans come all the way back from a 2-0 hole. The scores were 35-37, 25-30, 30-27, 30-20, 15-10.

The Spartans were unable to get past the Triton defense early, being held to a .160 hitting percentage in game two, and a .220 mark after the first two games. Triton middle blocker, Keisha Carter was causing Tampa fits, blocking six balls after the first two games.

The Spartans' chances looked bleak, when trailing 23-26 during game three. However, Tampa was able to rally to a victory, closing out the game with two straight blocks.

The comeback victory in game three was just what Tampa needed to get back into the match. With momentum back on their side, the Spartans were able to jump out to a 12-6 lead and never let the Tritons get back in the game.

The match's intensity reached its highest point in the fifth and final game when the score was tied at eight apiece. Tampa was able to pull away after that, with Katelen Dixon ending the match with her fourth solo block of the evening.

The Spartans were led by senior, Erin Clark, who finished the match with 24 kills, against only two errors. Dixon and Alisha Green contributed 19 kills each. Gabriela Saade led the Spartans with 69 assists.

Tampa was able to record 15 total blocks on the night. Green led the defense with nine blocks. Danielle MacDonald added five blocks. Margeaux Sinibaldi led Tampa with 18 digs, while Saade and Dixon were able to add 17 and 11 respectively.

Tampa continues conference play Tuesday when Saint Leo comes to Tampa. The match will be played at the Bob Martinez Sports Center, with a start time of 7 p.m.