Alabama volleyball squeaked out a tough win Tuesday night against Samford. Alabama won the game in five sets and had to come form behind after losing the first set. This is the second time this year where the Crimson Tide have come back to win a match after losing the first set.

Alabama looked flustered as it could not capitalize on opportunities early in the match. Alabama had a season low .089 hitting percentage after the first set.

“We were just flat, we are tired, and I think it showed in the first set and a half,” said coach Ed Allen. “We have played a lot of volleyball and the wear and tear of trying to play at a really high level is starting to get to us.”

Despite being tired, the Crimson Tide showed its grit by continuing to battle through adversity. Four players ended up with double digit kills, one of which was sophomore Doris Carter. Carter finished the game with 13 kills, tying her for second amongst the team. However, Carter had one of her lowest shooting percentages this season, shooting around 12 percent.

“I have great players around me who pick me up when I am down,” said Carter. “My biggest enemy is myself, but my teammates have my back all the time and it means a lot.”

Although Carter had an off night, there is no denying that she has been a huge key to success for this years Alabama volleyball team. Allen said that Carter is one of the most driven players on this team and her play this year has really shown her drive.

“It means the world to hear him say that about me,” said Carter. “I’ve worked really hard to get here and I love this team and we have an amazing group of girls on this team. Everyone is out here doing the same thing.”

Alabama’s next match is this Friday where they host South Alabama in the first game of the double header and then take on No.15 Purdue.