Oct. 27, 2000

Box Score

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford University had four players with double-figure kills to pick up an important Trans America Athletic Conference volleyball victory over Mercer University at Seibert Hall on Friday night.

Samford (12-15, 3-5) keep its TAAC tournament hopes alive with the victory and set up a battle for the final tournament position with Troy State next Tuesday. Mercer drops to 7-21 on the season and 0-7 in the TAAC.

"This was a much needed win," said Samford head coach Vickie Nichols. "We needed a confidence builder heading into the Troy State match. I am proud of the way we played tonight knowing we have to win every match."

Ashley Fulton led the way for the Bulldogs with 19 kills and 16 digs. Stefanie Pickett quietly collected 17 digs, six blocks, four service aces, and five kills. Shellie Ouldhouse got off to a slow start but finished strong with 15 kills and 11 digs.

The Bulldogs came back from a 14-7 deficit in the opening game to win 16-14. Krista Kettering served the final five points of the game and Pickett and Angela Smith combined on a block for game point.

In game two, the Bulldogs broke open a 4-4 tie with a 10-3 run to lead 14-7. Mercer fought back to 14-11 before Whitney Miller had one of her 14 kills to end the game. The third game was a battle to 9-9 before Mercer ran off six straight points to send the match to a fourth game.

Samford dominated game four by out hitting Mercer .333-.027. The Bulldogs jumped out to a 12-2 lead before winning 15-5.

Mercer was led by 20 kills from Erin Jalbert, 17 kills from Vicky Skundric, and 15 kills from Amy Schreiber.

Samford will return to action on Tuesday night Oct 31, against Troy State at Seibert Hall while Mercer will play tomorrow at Jacksonville State.