49ers earn second consecutive sweep, eighth consecutive win

Freshman Alma Serna tallies a match-high 11 kills in victory over Cal State Northridge.

Staff Writer

Published: Saturday, October 29, 2011

Updated: Sunday, October 30, 2011 18:10

Priscilla Castro | Daily 49er

Sophomore middle blocker Haleigh Hampton (8) goes up for a kill on Saturday at the Walter Pyramid.

Priscilla Castro | Daily 49er

Freshman outside hitter Alma Serna (24) attempts to spike the ball past a pair of Cal State Northridge players.

Priscilla Castro | Daily 49er

The Long Beach State women's volleyball team salutes to its alma mater after the match.

The Long Beach State women's volleyball team stayed perfect for the weekend, claiming its second sweep of a Big West Conference opponent in as many nights at the Walter Pyramid.

The ‘Niners cruised to a straight-set victory over Cal State Northridge — 25-18, 25-13, 25-19 — to extend its season-high winning streak to eight matches.

After a less than convincing sweep of UC Riverside on Friday, LBSU head coach Brian Gimmillaro said the team had "a little more emotion and a little more focus," on the second night of back-to-back matches.

Freshman outside hitter Alma Serna was the most productive of the ‘Niners, collecting a match-high 11 kills on .688 hitting.

"Alma is getting better and better," Gimmillaro said. "It does not always show in the match, but it showed tonight."

Serna, who has sat out of practice most of the season due to injury, said "being able to practice helps a lot. I feel more comfortable with the team."

LBSU (16-6, 10-2 Big West) took control of the match in the second set, scoring the last five points to round out the lopsided 25-13 win over CSUN (11-11, 5-5 Big West) .

The Matadors started quick in the third frame, taking an early 4-1 lead, but Serna and sophomore middle blocker Haleigh Hampton dominated the net and solidified the sweep.

Hampton, the reigning Big West Player of the Week, finished the match with six kills, three digs and two blocks in .188 hitting.

Freshman outside hitter Casey Hinger led the Matadors with eight kills on .136 hitting.

The ‘Niners, who lead the Big West in hitting percentage allowed, outhit Northridge .322 to .064.

The win completed the season sweep. LBSU defeated the Matadors in four sets in Northridge on September 30.

With four Big West contests remaining, Gimmillaro said he plans to only have his team focused on the match ahead.

LBSU will hit the road Saturday against Cal State Fullerton for its only match of the week. First set is scheduled for 7 p.m.

"We prepare all week for Fullerton," Gimmillaro said. "There are plenty of teams out there still in it."

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