Volleyball Swept By No. 4 Nebraska

Oct. 16, 2002

NORMAN, Okla. - Nebraska backed up its billing as the fourth best team in the country Wednesday night inside the Howard McCasland Field House, sweeping Oklahoma 30-14, 30-16, 30-19. The loss dropped OU to 4-13 on the season and 2-7 in Big 2 action. Nebraska remained undefeated in Big 12 play at 8-0 and improves to 16-1 on the season.

"Our hitters were aggressive tonight, unfortunately we couldn't get into our offense enough, " said OU Head Coach Kalani Mahi. "We attacked confidently but we didn't pass well. If we can't pass, then we can't run our offense and can't take the other team out of their system."

Freshman middle blocker Jennifer Adams pounded out 10 kills and hit .350 (10K-3E-20TA). Beyond Adams, Oklahoma didn't attack effectively, only hitting .113 (33-21-106) as a team. Senior setter Jessica Barney only assisted on 18 kills, her lowest total of the season. Freshman libero Tara Birkinbine led OU with seven digs.

"I think it's a blessing to have this upcoming weekend off," said sophomore outside hitter Candice Woods. "We've been working hard in practice and I think it is well deserved from that standpoint. It will also serve as a great mental break for us to prepare for next week and rejuvenate."

Nebraska dominated every major category, none more important than serving. The Cornhuskers recorded 13 aces while OU only mustered two. Oklahoma had eight service errors, including four on consecutive possessions in the final game. The Huskers outhit OU .356 (46-10-101) to .113, in the process recording 13 more kills.

"This weekend should give the players and our staff a chance to refresh, " said Mahi. "We have a few nagging injuries and the break will help us heal up. It should also help us mentally regroup and come together with a new found energy on Monday."

Nebraska was led by All-Big 12 outside hitter Laura Pilakowski who collected 16 kills and seven digs. Jennifer Saleaumua also put away 13 balls. Setter Lindsay Wischmeier passed a match-high 41 assists.

Nebraska senior All-American Greichaly Cepero did not play in the match due to team violations.

Oklahoma returns to action in the Big 12 next Wednesday, Oct. 23 in Lubbock, Texas against Texas Tech at 7 p.m. They return home the following Saturday for a match with Missouri inside the Howard McCasland Field House at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children. OU student with a valild student I.D. receive free admission.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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