APSU Sports: Austin Peay Volleyball
Nashville, TN – Austin Peay State University’s volleyball team closes out the road portion of its 2012 schedule when it meets Tennessee State in a noon, Saturday contest at Kean Hall.
Austin Peay has struggled to maintain offensive flow during the last two matches, something head coach Taylor Mott attributes to a lack of focus.
“Our passing and defense really hasn’t been up to par in our last three matches,” said Mott. “We got away with it at SIU Edwardsville but couldn’t in these last two contests. Our troubles in those two phases of the game aren’t anything new. We have proven we are capable of beating anyone when we show up to the gym ready to play and focused on the job that needs to be done.”
Offensively, senior outside hitter Nikki Doyle has recorded four consecutive 20-kill performances, including 20 kills at Belmont. She is averaging 4.57 kills per set in conference play and ranks second among league hitters.
Sophomore Jada Stotts also has performed well in league play, averaging 3.40 kills per set and ranking sixth among league hitters.
Tennessee State (13-10, 7-3 OVC East) has won three straight and nine of its last 12 contests. The Tigers current streak has included wins against Memphis and at both Jacksonville State and Tennessee Tech. Tennessee State will put forth a balanced offense attack with four players averaging more than two kills per set. Naomi Wells’ 3.34 kills per set in OVC play leads the team and ranks eighth among conference hitters.
