The Monon Spike, the volleyball equivalent of the Old Oaken Bucket, is up for grabs as the IU volleyball team battles in-state rival Purdue for the second time this season today at 7 p.m. in University Gym.
A preview of the match as the Hoosiers (14-12, 3-9) look to sweep the season series against the Boilermakers (11-12, 3-9):
When they last met
IU emerged victorious in West Lafayette on Sept. 30, upsetting Purdue in five sets by scores of 25-22, 25-17, 17-25, 17-25 and 15-13. Junior middle blocker Ashley Benson and freshman outside hitter Jordan Haverly led the Hoosiers with 21 and 19 kills, respectively. Sophomore libero Caitlin Cox recorded 19 digs.
Where they stand now
Both teams join Iowa in a three-way tie for worst record in the conference. IU holds head-to-head wins against both schools, and Purdue beat the Hawkeyes in straight sets on Oct. 17.
Keys to the match
The Hoosiers need to play to their strengths, particulary blocking and serving. Three Hoosiers recorded service aces in the last match against the Boilermakers, and if IU can once again get stellar production from its servers, it could make things difficult for Purdue, especially in a University Gym that is expected to be filled to capacity.
