AUBURN, Ala. (EETV) -Auburn entered the match on a four-game winning streak and a perfect home record, looking to extend both. The Tigers did just that, sweeping Mississippi State 3-0 by scores of 25-22, 25-20, and 25-17.
Nothing came easy for Auburn in the first set, which featured 11 ties and six lead changes as both sides traded momentum. The Tigers leaned heavily on outside hitter Lauren Dreves, who tallied eight kills in the first set, and opposite hitter Liz Markovska, who chipped in six. Auburn found itself in tight spots midway through the set, but gained the edge late to secure the set 25-22. The Bulldogs showed grit, but the Tigers’ composure in the final points made the difference.
After a close first set, Auburn came out more aggressive in second, scoring four straight points. But the Bulldogs responded quickly, tying the score at 6-6. Markovska then continued to dominate at the net, scoring back-to-back kills to push the Tigers ahead 8-6.
Mississippi State kept its composure and tied the set at 15-15. Both teams traded points, but Auburn’s offense proved to be too much. The Tigers closed on a 4-0 run, fueled by back-to-back aces from Markovska, to take the set 25-20
With the crowd behind them, Auburn put together its most dominant performance in the third set, cruising to a 25-17 victory to complete the sweep. Star players Dreves and Markovska once again fueled the attack, combining for 12 kills in the final set. Auburn maintained control from start to finish, never allowing Mississippi State to string together a long run.
Many Tigers put up solid statistical days agains the Bulldogs. Dreves and Alexis Dacosta tied for the team lead with 13 digs apiece. Markovska posted a season-high 19 kills on an efficient .475 hitting percentage. Kate Mansfield and Bel Zimmerman both accounted for five blocks. As a team, the Tigers recorded 12 blocks, 43 kills, and hit .295 while holding the Bulldogs to a .198 hitting percentage.
The performance vaulted the Tigers into the national conversation, receiving votes in the AVCA rankings for the first time this season. Auburn travels to Gainesville on Friday to face the No. 23 Florida Gators at 6 p.m. CDT, hoping to remain unbeaten in SEC play.
