MARTIN, Tenn. - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville volleyball improved its winning streak to a season-high five matches Friday with a four-set road victory at UT Martin.

The Cougars, now 8-5, defeated the Skyhawks 25-16, 25-22, 16-25, 25-23.

Sydney Winslow led the Cougars with 10 kills and a .364 hitting percentage. SIUE outside hitter Lexi Cibulka added eight kills. "We found a way to win. The first two sets we were on fire," said Gober.

SIUE was slowed in the third set by UT Martin. "I give them credit. They played hard in that third set," said Gober.

The Skyhawks, now 2-13, were boosted by 20 kills from Lauren Montague. UTM recorded 50 kills for the match but were slowed by 27 attack errors.

SIUE spread around its offense. Gober said SIUE setter Sammi Minton was focusing on getting the ball to the team's middle hitters.

"That's something we were working on," said Gober. "I think we just had a lower hitting percentage tonight because we were trying to force it to the middle hitters." SIUE finished with a .154 hitting percentage with 42 kills.

Gober also was pleased with his team's efforts blocking the ball. SIUE completed the match with seven blocks, including six from middle hitter Jessica Hemann and four from Winslow.

"We had a lot of good touches, and I thought we were disciplined," said Gober. "I think we really altered a lot of their shots. They had to hit around us."

SIUE next travels to Murray State for a noon match Saturday in Murray, Ky.

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