Hornets lose the Hartford Invitational opener to Explorers – Volleyball News
The first day of the Hartford/Quinnipiac Invitational did not bring good luck for Delaware State University volleyball team (Hornets) as they were edged out by La Salle Explorers in three sets, 3-0 (9-25, 18-25, and 16-25). The match was held at West Hartford, Connecticut on Friday, September 9. The Del State squad failed to get into a rhythm against the La Salle Team and stumbled.
The opening of the match was full of thrilling moments as both sides worked out prolific shots. Del State Hornets attacked very efficiently and built a lead of 7-6, while Explorers put up an aggressive array of attacks and scored 15 straight points to make it 21-7 on the scoreboard. Sophomore Jessica Croucher of Hornets struggled to raise her team’s score with a kill but she could only add two points. In response, Explorers put up heavy strike of volleys by sophomore Rachel Finkbeiner. Del State failed to catch up with the speed of La Salle and dropped the first set with heavy margin 9-25.
In the second set, Explorers spiked the ball hard and jumped to an early lead of 15-7. Junior outside hitter (OH) Kelly Scanlon was simply on fire as she created enough trouble for Deliware State Hornets. As the second set crossed the half-way mark, Hornets became more competitive. They threw everything in attack and tried to shorten the gap of points. Jessica Russell-Croucher put away fine serve aces, while Elisa Hermann notched points via kills. Del State managed to steal points from Explorers and came close to opponents 16-13. However, the La Salle players grasped the game plan of Hornets and stopped them right away. Explorers extended their lead to 2-0 by winning second set with 25-18 on board.
The game turned into a heated competition in the third set as Del State Hornets was looking to avenge the loss of two sets in row. It was their only chance to save the game by winning a third set, however, the Explorers had different plans. They were ready to put an end to the game in the third set. Long rallies were exchanged and the first tie of score was seen at 7-all. Nonetheless, Explorers built lengthy runs afterwards and sent Del State to defeat in the third set.
The La Salle Team will now challenge Navy and host Hartford on Saturday. Explorers are enjoying great form after taking an early win against Hornets and they are determined to carry the same momentum in their next matches. Likewise, Del State Team will try to cover the deficit in Saturday’s matches against Hartford and Quinnipiac.
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