The Eastern volleyball team had a very emotional victory against Tennessee State on Oct. 11 at Lantz Arena.

Not only did this win put an end to an agonizing 11-match losing streak – Eastern lost the first set but managed to win the match – but it was also the Panthers’ first come-from-behind win of the 2008 season.

Comebacks have not been the case this season, as the Panthers are 1-16 when dropping the first set. They are also 0-14 after falling in the first two sets.

After facing conference foes Tennessee Martin and Murray State last weekend, Eastern fell back into the pattern of relinquishing the first set and ultimately failed to win.

Sophomore outside hitter Alex Zwettler was not satisfied with the weekend’s performance which saw her team outscored 85-60 and out-hit .351 to .123.

“It’s frustrating, but we don’t lose focus” Zwettler said. “If you are competitive, a loss hurts you.”

When the Panthers lead in the first set, it’s a stark contrast.

When this happens, Eastern posts a 3-0 mark.

“Obviously, if you win game one, it takes a little pressure off your team,” head coach Lori Bennett said. “It gives them a little confidence.”

Many players throughout the season have said it is difficult to dig themselves out of an early deficit, though sophomore middle blocker Jorie Dieter knows what the Panthers did right versus Tennessee State.

With the Lady Tigers snagging a 34-32 set-one win after Eastern was leading 24-17, Dieter said she noticed her teammates were able to maintain a high level of energy.

Eastern was able to tie the match at two sets apiece and managed to pull out the win even though they were behind 12-8 in the 15-point final set.

Dieter said the Panthers need that kind of energy to gain confidence to string set victories together even when they are trailing in the match.

“We need to be there for each other,” Dieter said. “If they get a good kill, we should encourage them to keep going. You have to be positive and believe in what coach tells you to do to improve.”

Dieter is right.

Energy is needed for comebacks.

The right amount of energy could also be used to come out of the gates strong to prevail in the first set.

With all the Panthers’ losses coming after dropping the first set – while having only one comeback – jumping out to quick starts might be the only way for Eastern to gain ground in the win column.

Bob Bajek can be reached at 581-7944 or at rtbajek@eiu.edu.