How it happened
The first set of the night started with errors from both teams before UCF found their footing to take a 16-8 lead. Houston attempted to mix up their attack strategy, hoping the change of pace would confuse the Knights, but seven digs from Alexa Haley helped neutralize the Houston offense.
Avah Armour helped the Knights rally, tallying seven kills and ending the set (25-13) with an ace, electrifying the home crowd.Â
Houston showed signs of life in set two, keeping the Knights at bay early on. The Black and Gold, however, pulled ahead, making some clutch plays down the stretch. Four kills from Reaghan Thompson and three from Sasha Cohen helped the Knights take the set 25-18.
Set three saw Houston keep it close all the way through, attempting to claw back from the two-set deficit. The set featured 14 ties and five lead changes, with the Knights ultimately prevailing.
A few crucial mistakes from Houston allowed UCF to put them away late, capping off a strong night from the Black and Gold. The Knights took the set 25-22, putting an exclamation point on their third home win in conference play.
Up Next
The Knights will remain at home for their next game, taking on No. 24 Iowa State on Saturday for Senior Knight.