LIVINGSTON, Ala. — The University of West Alabama knocked off in-state rival North Alabama 3-0 in front of a packed house at Pruitt Hall Tuesday night on the UWA campus.  The pivotal win moves the Tigers to 15-0 on the season and 2-0 in Gulf South Conference action.

The sweep of the Lions from Florence, Ala. halted a 23-match (69 games) losing streak to UNA that dates back to the 1995 season.  UNA came into the match riding a 31-game winning streak versus GSC foes.  Their last conference defeat came against West Georgia in 2004.

The Tigers claimed game one 30-23 to take the early advantage in the match.  The two teams battled tooth and nail in the second game with UWA outlasting the Purple and Gold 36-34.  The Red and White finished off the contest claiming a 30-28 match-clinching win.

“This is a huge win for our team and our program,” said head coach Ron Arenz.  “The atmosphere tonight was electric.  We need to carry this momentum into Thursday’s battle with Alabama-Huntsville.”

UWA placed three players in double figures in kills with junior Allison Nail posting a team-high 16 kills.  Senior Rafaella Maranhao and Ana Gabriela Pedrosa each recorded 12 kills in the victory.  Pedrosa also led the squad in service aces with three.  Jacquie carded a match-best 17 digs. 

UNA (7-9) was led by current GSC Eastern Division Player of the Week Danielle Palasak with a match-high 17 kills.  Katie Haseltine finished with six kills.

The Tigers continue conference action on Thursday, Sept. 20, traveling to Alabama-Huntsville.  UWA’s next home match is set for Oct. 5 as it welcomes West Florida to campus.