RIVERSIDE — In their most dominant match this season, the Gauchos swept UC Riverisde in convincing fashion on Friday night.
Leading UCSB to the 25-17, 25-15, 25-16 decisions was Katey Thompson , who swung for a match-high 14 kills. The opposite checked in with her most efficient offensive outing of her senior campaign, as she hit for an overwhelming .619. Also checking in with double digit kills were Ali Spindt and Ali Barbeau with 12 and 11, respectively.
UCSB is now a perfect 2-0 when facing Big West teams on the road.
With the victory, the Gauchos keep the Highlanders winless in conference play, while also improving their season-high win streak to six matches. UCSB improves its record to 11-8 overall and 6-1 in the Big West. The Highlanders are still searching for their first conference victory at 0-7, while their record slides to 1-18 overall.
In a complete-game effort, UCSB held their own at the net with 12 total blocks, edging UCR’s final tally of seven. Phoebe Grunt led the match with five block assists.
Leah Sully led the Santa Barbara defense with 16 of the team’s 53 digs.
UCSB will continue on the road Saturday when it visits Cal State Fullerton at 6 p.m.
