Vikings split weekend road series

Responding to a challenge issued by their coaching staff and from within the team, the Vikings rebounded to trounce Idaho State Saturday night after a surprising sweep at the hands of Weber State Thursday.

After losing game one to Idaho State (5-17, 1-9), Portland State was able to regain some of its early-season swagger and ended up defeating the Bengals in four games (28-30, 31-29, 30-22, 30-25).

The win over Idaho State secured the Vikings’ grip on second place in the conference and helped the squad regain confidence after two consecutive losses to Big Sky opponents.

Following a tough loss to conference leader Sacramento State last Saturday, the squad headed into the weekends games feeling confident and looking to duplicate their success from earlier this year when they swept Weber State and Idaho State at home. On the road, however, they found the path to victory considerably more difficult.

“We never really found a rhythm offensively and not once during the match did we get a big play when we needed it,” said head coach Michael Seemann.

The squad continued its uninspired performance into the first game against Idaho State. Following the close loss in that game, Seemann and his staff challenged the players.

“We really challenged the girls to dig in a little bit and go to battle,” Seemann said.

Following the coaching staff’s challenge, the squad played with more energy, much like its usual style of play that features timely serving and solid execution.

“They came out and picked it up, and started to execute much better. It was really nice to see them respond to that challenge, and turn some things around,” Seemann said.

Solid play has become the trademark of the team, and that solid play is typified by sophomore outside hitter Marija Vojnovic. Vojnovic struggled against Weber State, and her sub-par performance epitomized the team’s play.

Vojnovic responded with a terrific match against the Bengals, leading the team with 19 kills and 17 digs. It was the 14th match this season she has double-doubled in those statistical categories.

While the setbacks came at a price-an unlikely loss to a conference opponent-the experience was perhaps more valuable. Playing through the difficult situation and rebounding should give the team more confidence this season, especially in their remaining road matches and conference tournament.

“You really learn more about yourself after a loss, than you do a win,” Seemann said.

The team will look forward to two home matches this week as they square off against Montana State Thursday and Montana on Saturday. Both games will be played at the Stott Center at 7 p.m.