A difficult road test awaits the ISU volleyball team when it gets to Norman, Okla., on Wednesday to take on the Sooners.

No. 25 Oklahoma (19-6, 6-3 Big 12) is a perfect 13-0 when playing in the comforts of home at McCasland Field House.

The No. 13 Cyclones (17-4, 8-2) came away with a 3-1 victory over the Sooners in the two team’s first meeting, but ISU coach Christy Johnson-Lynch expects a different OU team than the one they saw in Hilton Coliseum on Oct. 8.

“They’re really tough to play at home. We haven’t won down there a lot so we’re going to have to play really well,” Johnson-Lynch said. “Their lineup has changed since we last saw them, and I think they’re playing better.”

The Cyclones are hoping to get back in the win column after being swept on the road by Texas on Friday, Oct. 28.

Both of Iowa State’s conference losses have come at the hands of the Longhorns, while Oklahoma is the sole Big 12 team to beat Texas.

Defense has been a staple for the Sooners and was critical in their 3-2 upset of No. 9 Texas, when they registered 13.5 blocks and had three players with more than 10 digs.

“Defensively, they can really frustrate you when you take three of four good swings in a row, and they’ll still pop the ball up. You have to really stay patient and keep your composure.” Johnson-Lynch said. “They will go in stretches where you feel like you just can’t put the ball away.”

Junior setter Alison Landwehr said that when they are playing in a tough atmosphere like the one they’ll see Wednesday night, it’s important to take the momentum early.

“They always play better at home so we can’t let them think that they’re going to be in it,” Landwehr said. “When they are playing well, they are really good. If they can beat a team like Texas, you know that it’s in there somewhere.”

The Cyclones’ match with Oklahoma, which will be broadcast on ESPNU, will be Wednesday, Nov. 2, in Norman, with first serve set for 7 p.m.