The Hawai'i volleyball team will continue with its field study, going with the same experimental lineup for tonight's rematch against UC San Diego in the Stan Sheriff Center.

In Wednesday's four-game victory, the Warriors opened with outside hitters Joshua Walker, a second-year freshman who had started once in the previous five matches, and Sean Carney, who moved from setter this week. Also, Steven Grgas, who entered Wednesday's match with zero kills, replaced Matt "Dragon" Rawson as a starting middle blocker.

Walker had a team-high 16 kills, but made seven errors and hit .205. Carney was pulled during Game 3 after having twice as many errors (six) as kills (three). Grgas also exited in the third game because of inconsistent play.

"We need to give this (lineup) time," head coach Mike Wilton said. "It's an experiment worth exploring."

Wilton likes the flexibility of having essentially two setters — Carney and Nejc Zemljak — in the same rotation. Both also are accurate servers. The scheme enabled Zemljak to play more defense; he had a match-high 18 digs.

The rotation also allows Jim Clar, the team's leading hitter, to provide an energizing boost, if needed. Clar, who did not practice last week because of an abdominal strain, replaced Carney Wednesday.

"It was good to see Jimbo back on the court," Carney said. "He's one of our best players. I don't think anybody wants him to hurry back because of his injury."

Carney, who was not used as a primary passer since 'Iolani School, said he is adjusting to using different muscles as an outside attacker.

"I was a little more tired than usual," Carney said. "It's something you practice, and hope to get better."

Grgas also expects to improve his offense. In practices, the Warriors are working more on quick sets to the middle.

"I'm getting the repetitions I need," Grgas said.

He also has become a better read-blocker, focusing on the ball, opposing hitters and setter.

He is trying to discipline himself from watching the opposing setter too long. He said he wants to cut down on "guessing too much."

He said he needs to be in better position, which, in turn, will cause him not to reach on block attempts.

"All I know is it's technique, nothing more," Grgas said. "If you react to what you read, that's all that it takes."

Visit Tsai's blog at www.HawaiiWarriorBeat.com.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.