Alabama State looked to keep their momentum going at Troy, but the Trojans held back the Lady Hornets 3-0 (15-25, 22-25, 19-25) in a game that was much closer than the score indicated.

"I am proud of how we played," Head Coach Penny Lucas-White said. "We never gave up and we are getting better. I never have to worry about this team playing hard and competing and that is what they did tonight."

ASU struggled hitting the ball against the tall Troy front line and finished the game with a .058 hitting percentage. Rachel Smith led ASU with seven kills while Brooke Beasley had six and a game-high 11 digs.

Ellyn Jones had 14 assists and Luiza Griz had 10 digs. Once again, ASU was able to out block their opponent and finished the game with eight while Troy had seven. Amber Bennett had a game-high four total blocks (1 BS, 6 BA).

"Troy did a very good job against Amber tonight," Lucas-White said. "They double and triple teamed her all night, but I think it is a great learning experience for her. I know Amber and we will get back in the gym tomorrow and she will work hard and get better."

ASU jumped out to a quick 5-2 lead in the first set only to see Troy come storming back to take their first lead at 9-8. From there the Trojans went on a 10-4 run to go up 19-12 and then finished the set off at 25-15.

Once again in the second set ASU was able to jump out and led by as much as 11-5, but again Troy came back. This time they did not go on a big run, but slowly cut into the lead until they evened the score at 14. After three ties, Troy was able to put the set away 25-22.

Troy jumped out to a 6-0 lead in the third game and even though ASU cut the lead to 14-11, Troy was able to pull away again for the final 25-19 score.

ASU (5-8) will hit the airwaves Thursday when they fly to Phoenix, Ariz., to play in the Arizona State Marriott Invitational. The tournament runs Friday and Saturday, Sept. 20-21.