Redemption.
For a youthful Wisconsin volleyball team, the start of Big Ten play had been unforgiving. Dropping four conference matches, including three straight, the No. 11 Badgers (12–4) went into Wednesday’s home match with No. 4 Nebraska (13–4) desperate for a win.
Just two weeks ago, Wisconsin met up with the Cornhuskers in Lincoln, nearly knocking off Nebraska before a three-set rally dashed their hopes.
The Badgers meted out a measure of revenge at the Field House on Wednesday, knocking off the visiting Cornhuskers 3–1 in a hard-fought match. It was Nebraska’s first loss in Big Ten play.
Freshman middle blocker Dana Rettke once again starred, hitting .500 with 12 kills. Redshirt sophomore outside hitter Madison Duello came up big with 13 kills. Freshman setter Sydney Hilley continued her stellar season with 40 assists.
Wisconsin hit .296 for the match, including .378 in the fourth set. It was an error-prone match for both squads; Wisconsin had 15 service errors, Nebraska had 13.
In the end, Wisconsin’s defense held, racking up 13 blocks, holding Nebraska to .163, including .000 in the first set and -.094 in the second.
With this huge conference win in hand, the Badgers host Indiana on Friday at the Field House at 7 p.m.
Lots to celebrate about tonight! #OnWisconsin pic.twitter.com/aVL1GYtNKb
— Wisconsin Volleyball (@BadgerVB) October 12, 2017