The Houston volleyball team overcame a slow start with a strong finish Tuesday night to win its 2009 season opener 18-25, 25-18, 25-14 against visiting Licking.
The Lady Tigers (1-0) took control in the final set with a string of 10 consecutive points. Erica Keeney and freshman Alexa Ichord teammed up for two kills and three blocks during the spurt.
Houston started slow, falling behind 10-3 in the opening set and eventually trailing 18-9. The Lady Tigers never got closer than five points the rest of the way.
In the second set, Sarah Pierce and Haylee Kell had aces to help Houston take a 10-6 lead. The Lady Tigers led 16-14 before scoring six consecutive points to take control of the game. Pierce had another ace during the rally.
Houston trailed 5-1 in the final set before scoring 17 of the next 22 points.