Volleyball preview – Vikings vs. Northern Colorado

Portland State volleyball will attempt to win its 19th consecutive Big Sky match at the Stott Center on Saturday night as they square off against the Northern Colorado Bears.

The Vikings (11-4, 5-0) head into the game undefeated in Big Sky Conference play and will look to continue their recent domination of the Bears (4-10, 2-1). The Vikings won both matches last year, and have been victorious in each of the last five meetings.

Despite its record and recent history, Northern Colorado advanced to the semifinals of the Big Sky Tournament last year, which was their first year in the conference, and return three starters from last season’s squad. The Bears lost at Eastern Washington on Thursday night.

“Northern Colorado should present a few challenges-they are a good team,” said Viking head coach Michael Seemann.

One of those challenges could include Dulcie Stone, the team’s star outside hitter.

Stone currently ranks eighth in the Big Sky with 3.25 kills per game. On the season, the senior also has a .164 hitting percentage and is averaging 3.06 digs per game. The Portland State defense needs to key in on Stone the entire match, ensuring she does not receive any easy looks at the net.

Senior defensive specialist Abby Mayne presents another distinct challenge for the Vikings. If Portland State wishes to continue its 10-match regular season winning streak versus Big Sky foes, it should stray away from hitting the ball towards Mayne. The libero is fifth in the Big Sky with 4.37 digs per game, and her defensive play could alter the match considerably.

The Vikings will continue to rely on steady play from lone senior and captain Michelle Segun and sophomore setter Dominique Fradella, as well as sophomore outside hitter Marija Vojnovic. Big contributions can be expected from sophomore outside hitter Jennifer Oney as well. Oney has 126 kills this season, third most on the team behind Vojnovic and Segun.