Central Michigan University Athletics
Central Michigan University
Toledo
Chippewas win second consecutive 5-setter
10/28/2017 12:00:00 AM | Volleyball
Lindsay Gerber, CMUChippewas.com
TOLEDO, Ohio - The Central Michigan volleyball team claimed a 3-2, Mid-American Conference victory over Toledo on Saturday at the Rockets' Savage Arena.
The win extending the Chippewas' win streak to three and lifted them to 13-11, 5-7 MAC. The Rockets are 11-13, 6-6 MAC. CMU, which won both matches in a MAC weekend for the first time this season, is scheduled to entertain Northern Illinois (7-19, 6-5 MAC) and Western Michigan (14-8, 7-4 MAC) next weekend.
It was a back and fourth battle as Central Michigan topped Toledo 25-23, 19-25, 25-20, 23-25, 15-12. The Chippewas won in five at Ball State on Friday, coming from two sets down.
"Right off the bat, we came out and played really well," CMU coach Mike Gawlik said. "We got a little comfortable and it got closer than we wanted,, but we found a way to pull it out. This weekend had big road wins for us."
Freshman Kalina Smith finished with career-high 20 kills to lead the Chippewas. Her previous career best, 16 kills, came in Friday's win at Ball State.
"Kalina is always aggressive," Gawlik said. "That never wavers for her. When things aren't going well, she always has her foot on the gas. Sometimes she gets high air because of it but her constant spark helps us get runs and extend them."
Jordan Bueter added 16 kills and two aces for the Chippewas; Jayla Wesley had 11 kills on a .524 attack percentage; and freshman setter Grace Butler recorded 52 assists.
"We had a lot of people contribute," Gawlik said. "(Bueter) has carried an offensive role all season, but Kalina and Jayla stepped up this weekend. I think when you can share the load, you're a special team. That's what we're learning to do -- share the spotlight."
Saige Thomas had 19 kills to lead Toledo.
