EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE volleyball kept getting stronger as the match progressed Friday and collected a three-set victory over Eastern Kentucky at the Vadalabene Center.

SIUE improved to 3-2 in the Ohio Valley Conference and 7-9 overall after a 25-23, 25-20, 25-18 victory over the Colonels, now 4-11 overall and 1-4 in the OVC.

"We're so excited to pick up another conference win, especially to go across the divisions," said SIUE Head Coach Leah Johnson. SIUE is in the Western Division of the OVC while Eastern Kentucky plays in the Eastern Division.

Emma Anderson powered the Cougars early by picking up seven of her team-leading 12 kills in the first set. Freshman Kristen Torre came on strong late with seven of her 11 kills in the third set.

"I was excited to see how offensive they were. On both sides of the ball, they were aggressive," Johnson added.

SIUE finished with 39 kills and a team hitting percentage of .207. Kelsey Augustine proved the most efficient with her offense with a .462 hitting percentage behind six kills and no attack errors.

Defense proved to be a valuable weapon for the Cougars. SIUE equaled its season best in blocks with 10. Torre led the team with six followed by four from Augustine and three each from Anderson and Cori Harris.

"We have a lot of people who can contribute to our success long-term. I think just being versatile and continuing to use different options will continue to help us develop and grow," Johnson said.

EKU struggled on offense and finished with a .009 hitting percentage that included 28 kills and 27 errors. Ashley Edmond led the Colonels with seven kills.

The Cougars now face a strong Morehead State team which opened play this weekend undefeated in the OVC. Match time Saturday is 2 p.m. at the Vadalabene Center.

"We're taking on a respectable and talented team in Morehead State. It will be a great night of volleyball," said Johnson.