Aston, PA - Cairn picks up victory over Neumann.

Cairn (3-11 / 0-0 UNITED EAST) jumped out to an early 6-0 lead over Neumann (1-4 / 0-0 UNITED EAST) including 2 kills by freshman opposite Justin Panaia (Jamison, PA / Dock Mennonite). late in the set Neumann threatened a comeback, getting as close as 22-19 but a pair of kills by junior outside hitter Sam Poirier ( Nogyang, South Korea /  International Christian School Uijeongbu) clinched the first set for the Highlanders. 

The second set featured back-and-forth scoring, with Neumann carving out a small 20-18 advantage. Cairn responded with 4 straight points, propelled by 3 consecutive aces by freshman opposite Nehemiah Clark (Ukarumpa, Papua New Guinea / Ukarumpa International School). The Knights bounced back and controlled the remainder of the set, winning 26-24. 

Set 3 saw another hot start by the Highlanders with Cairn grabbing a 5-0 lead to start the set. The Knights once again made a late push cutting the lead to 20-18. Poirier protected the Highlander lead again by collecting 2 kills to put the Highlanders ahead by 4. Cairn eventually closed out the set with a score of 25-22.

The 4th and final set resembled the 2nd with back and forth scoring throughout. Cairn eventually gained a 23-18 edge before allowing Neumann to rally back to 23-22. The Highlanders held on and picked up a win 25-22 to secure the match victory.  

Cairn will return to action on Saturday February 14th for a tri-match hosted by Juniata.