LLCC defeats #9 Kirkwood 25-23, 25-20, 25-21

In the second match, Lincoln Land swept the Eagles of Kirkwood, showing fatigue playing back-to-back matches.  The Loggers built a quick 10-4 lead behind the hitting of Addie Patton and the serving of Kaylee Beekman.  Though Kirkwood was able to close the set to one point, they could not tie it, and eventually lost 25-23.  The second set was a tight contest with the teams trading points until 16-16, when Beekman again took over with her serves, sparking a 5 point run which proved the difference inthe contest as the Loggers won 25-20.  The third set was a see-saw affair with Kirkwood building a 7-1 lead behind scrappy defense and smart hitters.  After a Lincoln Land time out and a missed serve by the Eagles, Lincoln Land went on a run and took an 8-7 lead.  The scoring went back and forth to 18-18 when Bailey Rexroad put down a clutch hit, and with Marusic's defense, sealed the Logger victory.

"It was great to win two matches today," Jim Dietz said after the match, "but we have two more ranked teams tomorrow.  We cannot let up, especially since one of those is Owens Community College."  Dietz continued, laughing, "I think they would like payback for the Final Four last year."

Lincoln Land is now 14-4 on the year. Next:  #20 DMACC, #2 Owens at Parkland Invitational 11 a.m. Saturday

Match Stats:

Digs:  Marusic 23, Beekman 16 

Aces:  Jackson 3, Beekman 1, Edwards 1

Blocks:  Rexroad 2, Patton 1, Cunningham 1

Assists:  Anderson 21, Jackson 19

Kills:  Rexroad 10, Edwards 7, Patton 7