Dukes take down Delaware

Amy Paterson / photo editor Sophomore middle blocker Ashley Copenhaver spikes the ball during JMU's victory over the University of Delaware Saturday.

Coming off their first loss at home this season the previous night against Hofstra University, the women’s volleyball team rebounded, defeating Colonial Athletic Association foe the University of Delaware Blue Hens in three of four games.

The Dukes rallied back from a 25-16 deficit in the first game to tie it up at 28 and eventually win the game 31-29. The momentum continued as sophomore middle blocker Ashley Copenhaver opened the second game by serving eight straight points before Delaware could answer. The Dukes took game No. 2, 30-25.

"We have been working on playing with more passion and we were able to do that today," sophomore right side hitter Bayli Stillwell said. "It made us play so much better and really helped us to dominate them."

After falling behind in the third game 11-7, the Dukes rallied and took a 19-18 lead on a kill from sophomore outside hitter Hanna Porterfield. However, Delaware would rebound and take the game 30-27.

But the Dukes would bounce back in the fourth game. Down early 12-7, JMU came from behind to the tie the game at 21. The two teams traded points before JMU was able to pull away and take the match at 30-27.

Coach Disa Garner said junior setter Nora Quish was a big reason for the comeback victory.

"Nora Quish is normally our defensive specialist," Garner said. "Today she came in and started and played with a lot of composure and energy, really adding to the chemistry on the court."

Junior outside hitter Emilee Hussack led the Dukes with 16 kills. Freshman Jena Pierson led the team with 21 digs.

"We are on an emotional high right now," sophomore outside hitter Hanna Porterfield said. "We need to keep up. We play three matches on the road next week and need to continue with this intensity."

The Dukes are next in action Oct. 12 at Virginia Tech.

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