The last time the K-State volleyball team faced off against Nebraska, the Wildcats’ performance could be summed up in one word: inconsistent.
    When the teams squared off on Sept. 17 in Manhattan, K-State had the Huskers on the mat. However, with the match tied 1-1 and a comfortable lead in the third game, it all came unraveled. The Wildcats weren’t able to recover, and Nebraska went home with a 3-1 win.
    Nearly two months later, head coach Suzie Fritz says her team is much improved and better prepared to face the national powerhouse.
    “It seems like a really long time ago, no doubt,” said Fritz, who tied K-State’s all-time wins record against Oklahoma on Wednesday. “We’re a much better team. For once, it’s not a match that necessarily everybody thinks you’re supposed to win, so you get to play loose. You get to just kind of go for it and let the chips fall where they may.”
    Fritz said while her team may be more relaxed this time around, Nebraska is never a team to take lightly – especially on the road.
    “I’m certain, after watching them a little bit today, that they’re better too,” she said. “You know, they played here without two pretty key players in their lineup. I think [Nebraksa] Coliseum is one of the most difficult places to play in the country.”
    Fritz and the No. 15 Wildcats (21-4, 11-3 Big 12 Conference) will look to capitalize on their improvements when they take on the No. 3 Huskers (22-1, 13-1) Saturday in Nebraska Coliseum.
    Nebraska has been paced this season by a pair of outside hitters. Senior Jordan Larson — a 2007 All-American - leads the team with 3.77 kills per game. Sophomore Tara Mueller has also been strong at the net, as she is averaging 3.46 kills.
    The Wildcats will counter Nebraska’s strong net play with a trio of seniors. Outside hitters Rita Liliom and Nataly Korobkova - also a 2007 All-American - have had solid senior campaigns. They are avergaing 4.2 and 3.25 kills per game, respectively. Middle blocker Megan Farr has enjoyed a solid all-around season for K-State, as she is averaging 1.77 kills and 1.22 blocks while maintaining a .374 hitting percentage on the year.
    The Wildcats and Huskers have faced off 78 times prior to Saturday’s meeting. First serve is set for 7 p.m.

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