Eagles finish 2-2 in Gold Division
October 12
Faulkner took on the University of Mobile in the semifinals of the Faulkner Invitational Saturday evening. The Eagles advanced to the semis after defeating Lambuth University in five games earlier that day. Faulkner played well and even defeated the Rams in game two, but No. 18 Mobile had too many offensive weapons and took the match in four 25-20, 28-30, 25-17, 25-13.
Though the Eagles hoped to advance to the Gold Division finals, the team had much to be proud of. When the two teams faced off in early September, Faulkner failed to break out of the teens. The Rams blistered the Eagles 25-12 in game one and though Faulkner continued to improve in subsequent sets, they still peaked at 17 points in the third game.
This was a different Faulkner team and for the first time since early last season the Eagles had the Rams playing on their heels. The home team, with tremendous fan support, stunned Mobile in extended points in set two. Game three was a back and forth battle early, but the Rams slowly widened the gap and were able to play at a more comfortable tempo, one that the birds had trouble matching.
Senior outside hitter Holly Hutcheson was, to no one's surprise, the offensive leader for the Eagles. The Texan had 14 kills and added a strong defensive performance that included 19 digs. Outside hitter Neysa Hernandez also had the hot hand against the Rams. The freshman out of Enterprise, Alabama, had 11 kills, hitting .207 in the match. Junior setter Shaleen Knight had 22 assists and sophomore libero Kari Wiggins scooped up 26 digs.
Mobile is a strong team, and at 23-1, one of the top in the nation. For a program that has somewhat struggled for an identity this season, this match was a victory for the Eagles in an important way. The program now knows that, though improvement is still needed, a fierce potential burns within. This team has the ability to win and win big; it's just a matter of believing.
The Eagles travel to Gainesville, Ga., on Monday to take on conference opponent Brenau University at 6 p.m. (CST). The Golden Tigers sit at 0-8 in SSAC play and are currently ranked last in the conference. Brenau finished with a respectable performance in the Faulkner Invitational, however, taking second in the Silver Division.
Faulkner returns home on Thursday, Oct. 16, for the much-anticipated Pink-Out match with conference rival Southern Wesleyan. The teams went five games a few weeks ago in a three-hour battle. Thursday's event should prove exciting for both teams as they have both dedicated their seasons to the advancement of Breast Cancer Awareness. The Pink-Out match will be preceded by a survivor's reception at 5 p.m. The game is set for 6 p.m. T-shirts for the event are available for purchase through the volleyball office.