Final Four: UCLA/Illinois tied 1-1

SAN ANTONIO--In the semifinals, USC led Illinois late in the third set, but gave up six in a row and lost the set ... and eventually, the match.

Tonight, UCLA was cruising in the second set. But Illinois went on a 7-0 run, and stole the second set 25-23, to tie the match 1-1.

UCLA's Tabi Love is struggling mightily, hitting just .062 on 16 swings. Coach Mike Sealy pulled her twice.

Both teams are hitting poorly, largely because they aren't serving receiving with any consistency, forcing long rallies. In one stretch, Illinois setter Annie Luhrsen became so frustrated that she repeatedly turned and attacked on the second ball--earning several kills.

UCLA's Lauren Van Orden celebrates a point against Illinois
[Volleyblog Seattle photo by Leslie Hamann]