LANGHRONE, PA - The Crimson Eagles were grounded by a City College of New York team that came into Langhorne and outlasted PBU after five grueling sets late Saturday afternoon. On a day in which PBU secured an early 2-0 lead, the Crimson Eagles let their last regular season match of the year slip through their hands as the Beavers refused to succumb and eventually downed PBU, 3-2.
The Crimson Eagles cruised to victory in the first two games, overcoming the Beavers by scores of 30-25 and 30-21. Unfortunately, those two games would be all that PBU could muster as the next three decisions fell in City College of New York's favor. The Beavers won the subsequent sets by scores of 30-26, 31-29, and 15-11.
Freshman Cristen Hess produced 20 kills on 52 attempts good for a .308 hitting percentage to go along with six total blocks during the series. Becky Williams finished with 12 kills and a team high 20 digs as well as five overall blocks, and sophomore setter Betsy Ranck managed 47 assists to go with 16 digs and 3 aces. Kay Lynn Zeiset and Angie Kresge each contributed 19 digs while Zeiset also added four serving aces.
After winning 15 straight contests earlier in the year, Saturday's loss marks the volleyball team's second defeat in three matches along with their 4th setback in nine contests. Despite the loss, PBU still maintains an 82.4 winning percentage for the season with a 28-8 overall record. With the win CCNY improves to 22-5.
The Crimson Eagles begin NEAC postseason play later this week when they challenge Keuka College in the conference semifinals. The match will be held on Friday at 6:00 pm with the winner advancing to the NEAC Championship on Saturday.
