BIRMINGHAM – Erika Vanhootegem had 23 kills and 23 digs to help Troy State defeat Samford, 3-1, in Trans America Athletic Conference volleyball action at Seibert Hall Tuesday night.

The Trojans (19-8, 3-4) fell behind 4-0 to open the match. Troy State called a timeout and then went on an 30-10 run to win game one 15-8 and game two 15-6.

The Bulldogs (12-16, 3-6) played their best game in game three to win 15-10. Samford hit .211 in game three while only hitting .094 for the match.

In game four, Troy State built a 14-6, lead but missed two consecutive serves on match point and Samford went on an 8-0 run to tie the game at 14-14. Triboulet and Kellogg combined for back-back blocks to end the match 16-14.

With the win, the Trojans keep their TAAC Tournament hopes alive. If Troy State defeats Jacksonville, they need Florida Atlantic to beat Jacksonville State and Stetson to clinch.

If, and only if, Jacksonville State beats Florida Atlantic and Troy State, and Stetson beats Florida Atlantic, would the Trojans not be able to advance to the conference tourament.

They will get their chance Saturday as they face off against Jacksonville University at Trojan Arena. First serve is set for 2 p.m.