Nearing the end of its tournament play, Ohio (2-7) travels to Charlotte to participate in the Charlotte Invitational. Ohio will face off against Maryland Eastern Shore (2-8), Charlotte (6-3) and Furman (7-2).
Ohio has struggled in tournament play this season, winning a total of nine sets compared to opponents' combined total of 23. It looks to be back in the win column with this being the last tournament and Mid-American Conference play starting next week. After a tough weekend last week in Dayton, Ohio, the Bobcats will look to put the train back on track before the bulk of their season starts.
Game 1 Info:
Opponent: Maryland Eastern Shore
Date and Time: Sept. 19, 10:30 a.m.
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Like Ohio, Maryland Eastern Shore has also struggled to get in the win column, as it is currently on a seven-game losing streak. The Hawks haven’t won since the beginning weekend of the season, beating Florida A&M and Hampton. In those seven straight losing games, it has only won five sets. With both teams needing a win desperately to help build momentum as the season continues, expect both teams to play hard and the game to be competitive.
Game 2 Info:
Opponent: Charlotte
Date and Time: Sept. 19, 6:30 p.m.
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
After a bad start to the season, Charlotte has found its footing, being able to win all six of its last games. Something to note for this game though, is this will be Ohio’s second game of the day, while Charlotte will be coming in fresh, which could be a tipping point in the game. Charlotte has been good at closing teams out, which has been something Ohio has struggled greatly with, and when adding that this will be the second game of a double-header for Ohio, it could be something to look for.
Game 3 Info:
Opponent: Furman
Date and Time: Sept. 20, 12 p.m.
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Furman has been very consistent all season, with only a little two-game skid early on. In games Furman has won, only one opponent has been able to win two sets. Furman has been good at shutting out teams' attempts at taking an extra set and keeping the game close, which is something Ohio will need to do against a good team like Furman.
The 7-2 Paladins will be a very solid last non-conference opponent for the Bobcats who will need some momentum before MAC play starts.
Player to Watch:
Despite the loss to the seventh-ranked Pitt team, junior Gentry Brown more than held her own. She had nine kills in this game, leading her team. Brown also led Ohio in points with 9.0. She has had a very solid season so far, and look for her to continue that streak.
