DENTON, Texas – The Ouachita volleyball team won its first match of the 2021 season in convincing fashion, sweeping Florida Tech 3-0 on Friday at the Denton Volleyfest hosted by Texas Woman's University.

The Tigers (1-4) needed an extra two points to win the first set 27-25, followed by a 25-22 win in the second set, and a dominating 25-14 margin in the third set to seal the victory.

For the third time in her career, junior Karli Ferguson posted a hitting percentage of above .500. She finished the win over the Panthers (0-7) with six kills on nine swings with no errors. The Conway native also added six total blocks and one service ace.

Senior Rileigh Fielder followed closely behind Ferguson in point production with a match-high 10 kills. Kayla Steinmeyer turned eight kills and a .429 percentage with only two errors. Kellen Church aided the offensive attack with 17 assists and also had eight digs.

In addition to Ferguson's blocks, Lexie Castillow led the Tigers defense with 13 digs in the win.

The Tigers are back in action Friday afternoon in the Denton Volleyfes, taking on Texas-Permian Basin at 4:30. Follow along at OBUtigers.com/coverage.