By: Diego Macaraeg (@DiegoMac_sports) – Spear Reporter | Redshirt junior Lolo Fonua spikes the ball in SJSU’s 3-1 loss to UC Santa Barbara on Aug. 29 (Photo by Mohhamad Najimi – Spear Photographer)
In its final match of the Outrigger Invitational, San Jose State (2-3) pulled off another five-set thriller Friday night, rallying from two sets down to defeat St. John’s (0-5).
After dropping the first two sets, SJSU flipped the switch and sparked a comeback with solid defense and a stout attack.
“We are starting to figure out ways to win,” head coach Todd Kress said. “I think we are starting to realize when we are down we are never out.”
With an all-round performance, junior outside hitter Naima Foster provided the Spartans with 10 kills, nine digs and five blocks, including a solo block in the fourth set.
SJSU’s sophomore middle blocker Learden Lee anchored the defense at the net, finishing with a match-high eight blocks.
The Spartans’ turnaround began in the third set, where improved blocking and passing slowed St. John’s offense.
Despite the Red Storm’s inability to finish off the Spartans, senior right side Erin Jones shined by leading all players with 21 kills with 18 digs.
After set three, SJSU dominated the final two sets, holding the Red Storm to a negative hitting percentage in sets four and five.
“Even though the first two sets were not anywhere near quality volleyball, [I’m] very proud of the team, that they were able to comeback and find a way to win,” Kress said.
With back-to-back five-set clashes under their belt, the Spartans leave Hawaii with new-found confidence and momentum, showing they can both protect a lead and fight back when trailing.
Spartans volleyball will return to action Saturday, Sept. 13, at 1 p.m. against California at the Mott Athletics Center.
