The matchup on Sunday afternoon featured two opponents nationally ranked inside the Top-10 as Florida swept Minnestoa, 3-0. The loss moves the Golden Gophers record to 2- 2 on the year. While Florida kept their record perfect and advance to 4-0. It was a loud and hostile environment inside the Stephen C. O’Connell Center for the Gators home-opener.
The victory for the Gators marked the first time in program history that they have swept two Top-5 ranked teams in one week. UF looked strong early as they took the win in the first set 25-22. Sofia Victoria and Kennedy Martin set the tone early offensively. In the second frame, Florida kept their foot on the gas and won 25-17. Then, in the final set, the No. 8 Gators put away No. 5 Minnesota 25-23 in a highly competitive last frame.
The Gators stayed hot to start the season, once again led by Kennedy Martin. She led the team with 15 kills during the match. Other key offensive contributors included AC Fitzpatrick, Sofia Victoria, and Anna Dixon, who each posted seven kills.
Alexis Stucky kept the defense on their toes all afternoon long as she dished out 32 assists. Elli McKissock also had seven in the match. McKissock also was the catalyst on the defensive end for Florida. Totaling 15 digs during Sunday’s contest.
The Gators will get some much needed rest after starting the season 4-0 for the 17th time in program history. Florida will host the Gator Invitational starting this Thursday. UF will be back in action at 7 p.m. as they take on Sacramento State at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center.