New Paltz, NY-- Traveling south to take on SUNY New Paltz in midweek non conference action, volleyball lost a close four set match to the host Hawks, 3-1 (25-12, 22-25, 25-15, 25-19). The Ephs found themselves down a set quickly out of the gate, as their opponents busted open a close game at 9-9 to take an eight point lead 18-10. The Hawks then finished the set on a 7-2 run for the 25-12 victory.
In the second set an energized Eph squad turned the tables on their opponents, as their offense came alive behind some rejuvenated and consistent serve recieve. First year Raea Rasmussen would lead the team with 10 total kills, while classmate Claire Miller would add in an additional 8. Sophomore Emily Doll also had 8 kills. Williams was able to take the second set 25-22.
The Ephs were unable, however, to maintain their momentum going into set number three, succumbing by a score of 25-15. In set number 4 it would be the Williams defense that kept the chances of a comeback alive. Miller would lead the team with 17 digs, while senior libero Aly McKinnon was second on the team with 11. First year Emily O'Day and junior Lauren Agoubi both had seven digs apiece. Unfortunately it would be too little too late as the Ephs were unable to force a deciding fifth set, falling by a score of 25-19.
The team will now look ahead to their only home weekend of the season, where they will host the Maine triumvirate of Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby. The Ephs will face Bowdoin on Friday night, which will also be senior night to recognize the graduating class of 2012. They will follow that up with matches against Bates and Colby on Saturday.
