The Houston Cougars volleyball team broke their three-game losing streak against the UConn Huskies, Friday night.

The Cougars were able to break a losing skid that, coincidentally, started at Storrs, Conn when UConn swept Houston the last time these two teams stepped foot on the court.

With vengeance in mind, the Cougars tried to return the favor by trying to complete the sweep after having won the first two sets. However, Houston found that UConn wasn’t about to go without a fight when the Huskies claimed the third match. Both teams played a closed game the fourth set, but the Cougars managed to win the match 3 sets to 1 (25-15, 25-20, 21-25, 25-20).

At the start of the first set, the Huskies had some difficulty adjusting to an aggressive Houston offense, led by freshman sensation Brookah Palmer. UConn allowed the Cougars to seize the first set with a 10-point difference.

However, the Huskies were ready for the second set after having adjusted to Houston’s pace. UConn managed to keep the second match close by targeting the holes in the Cougars’ formation and playing good defense. Despite having difficulty, the Cougars managed to repossess control of the game and capture the second set.

Houston was determined to go for the sweep, but UConn put a stop to that notion as the Huskies managed to discombobulate the Cougars’ game with their constant rotation. With UH unable to adjust to the sudden changes, the Huskies ended up claiming the third set.

At the beginning of the fourth set, things seemed to be in favor of UConn as the Huskies defensive game, not only, managed to neutralize the Cougars’ offense like in the previous sets, but, also, allowed UConn to have a seven-point lead against Houston.

Knowing they could not afford to lose the match, the Cougars rallied as Palmer and, fellow freshman, Chenelle Walker closed the gap, and managed to take the lead later in the game.

The offensive assault proved too much for the Huskies, causing them to make mistakes at crucial moments that allowed the Cougars to scores points necessary close the set and win the match.

However, the game would not go without any controversy as UConn’s head coach, Kris Grunwald, received a penalty card after arguing with the officials.

With the victory on Friday, Houston’s record improves 16-9 overall, while going 6-7 in the American Athletic Conference.

Houston will seek their 20th win Sunday afternoon, as the Cougars host their conference rival, Temple Owls.

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