CARSON, Calif. – The Humboldt State volleyball team turned things around to win its final two matches at the D2 West Region Volleyball Showcase Saturday. After coming from behind to top Montana State Billings on Friday, the Lumberjacks (5-3) defeated Hawaii Hilo (2-3) in five sets again Saturday.
 
"We finished the weekend with another five set battle," said Head Coach Kelly Wood.  Our team played some tough teams this weekend and it was exactly what we needed as we head into conference next weekend.  The focus will continue to be on playing consistent volleyball."
 
The Jacks jumped out to quick deficits of 7-2 and 10-3 to open the match, but responded with a kill by Alex Lolland to take the advantage back at 15-14. After taking the lead, the Green and Gold closed out the set on an 11-4 run.
 
The Vulcans controlled the second set, with the PacWest school jumping out to a 19-7 advantage. From that point HSU was able to score seven of the next eight points, but could not overcome the margin, falling 25-16.
 
Hilo started strong in the third set as well, jumping out to an 8-3 advantage. The Green and Gold provided an answer, going on a 10-1 run to hold the lead at 13-9. The Jacks increased their lead to close out the set, 25-16.
 
The Vulcans then forced a decisive fifth set, which began with each team knotted at four apiece.  That is when the momentum shifted towards the Green and Gold. Symone Hayden sparked a 10-0 run with a kill followed by nine straight points with her at the service line to put HSU ahead, 14-4, before ultimately closing it out, 15-6.
 
The Jacks begin California Collegiate Athletic Association competition on Friday with a trip to Cal Poly Pomona and then Cal State San Bernardino on Saturday.