Match Highlights
Nebraska (6-1) continues its unbeaten streak against Creighton (5-1), having now won all 23 matchups between the two teams. This was the first meeting with both teams ranked in the Top 10, and it certainly lived up to the hype.
Nebraska started strong, claiming the first two sets with scores of 25-19 and 25-16. The Cornhuskers demonstrated their offensive depth, with key contributions from Lindsay Krause, who recorded 15 kills and five blocks, and Andi Jackson, who added 15 kills and eight blocks. Harper Murray was instrumental as well, notching 16 kills and the crucial match-winning point.
Creighton, however, showcased their resilience by winning the third set in a marathon 33-31. Norah Sis, who finished with 24 kills and 11 digs, was pivotal in keeping the Bluejays in the match. The third set featured intense back-and-forth action, with Creighton staving off multiple match points before finally securing the win.
The Bluejays continued their momentum into the fourth set, dominating with a 16-25 win. Ava Martin, who added 17 kills to her tally, and Maddy Bilinovic, with 19 digs, were key to their success in this set.
Decisive Fifth Set
In the fifth set, Nebraska seized the early advantage, jumping to a 3-0 lead. Despite Creighton’s best efforts to claw back, Nebraska’s balanced attack proved too much. The Cornhuskers built a lead to 9-4, and though Creighton fought hard, the Huskers finished strong with a 15-10 win.
Nebraska’s libero, Lexi Rodriguez, was crucial in the final set, contributing 21 digs and helping to stabilize the defense. The final set showcased Nebraska’s ability to capitalize on crucial moments, securing the match with an impressive .444 hitting percentage compared to Creighton’s .290.
Coaching Perspectives
Creighton coach Kirsten Bernthal Booth expressed disappointment over the missed opportunity, emphasizing that the team needed to bring the same intensity they showed in the third set throughout the match. Despite the loss, she acknowledged the high level of competition and the need to stay focused for future challenges.
Nebraska coach John Cook praised his team’s ability to rebound from the intense third set and the disappointing fourth set. “We had four swings to win it and couldn’t put it away,” Cook said. “So that takes a lot of momentum away. I just told them, ‘Let’s regroup; it’s game five, you’re at home; let’s go.’ They found a way to play really, really well.”
Fan and Venue Impact
The match drew a crowd of 8,924, the third-largest for a volleyball game at the Devaney Sports Center. The atmosphere was electric, with fans filling every available spot, adding to the excitement of this high-stakes encounter.
Looking Ahead
Creighton will regroup and head to Louisville for the Cardinal Classic, facing Northern Iowa, Rice, and No. 4 Louisville this weekend. Nebraska will continue its campaign as they aim to build on this hard-fought victory.
The clash between these two top-ranked teams was a testament to their skill and determination, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead for both programs. Fans of both teams will be eager to see how these powerhouse squads perform in the coming matches.
