Release courtesy of Pratt Athletics
BROOKLYN, NY – The Pratt women's volleyball team evened their overall record at 2-2 with an impressive 3-0 (25-22, 25-17, 25-21) conference victory over the Lions of King's College at the ARC.
In what proved to be the Cannoneer's best offensive performance of the season, Pratt hit for an overall .248, which included 37 kills compared to just 12 errors.
"We ran an efficient offense tonight," added Coach Louis Sepulveda following the win. "It's always a great sign but I know there is room for improvement."
In the first set, a back and forth beginning quickly swung King's way, as the visitors opened up an 18-10 lead, following back-to-back Dekka Hunley aces. The hosts would answer with an attack of their own as a kill and two aces by Julia Kubakhighlighted a 6-0 Cannoneer run as they closed to gap to two. With the score knotted at 20-20, a service ace by Patricia Morales and a pair of kills by Cori Glidden and Marlena Todd allowed Pratt to close out the resilient Lions and take game one by a score of 25-22.
In game two, the two Hudson Valley rivals again matched point for point as the score remained deadlocked at 16-16; until a kill by Anna Elisse Uy led to a 9-1 Cannoneer run that saw the home team coast to victory 25-17.
Despite Pratt having both the lead and momentum, King's stormed out of the gates in game three, taking the first five points in the set, until a Julia Kubaksmash stopped the Lions attack. Tied at 9 apiece, Emelen Mikelic took control of the match. Pratt's freshman outside hitter would respond with five kills during the set as Pratt closed out their conference foe 25-21.
For the match, setter Alivia Senevoravong totaled a new personal-best with 31 assists. Marlena Todd added another double-double of 12 kills and 13 digs, while Patricia Morales set a new career-best with 11 defensive scoops. However, Mikelic's night would serve as the difference. On the evening, the Grand Rapids, MI product would account for 13 kills on 24 attempts, good for an even .500 hitting percentage, to go along with 10 digs.
Following the win, Coach Lou chimed in on her performance.
"She was fantastic," exclaimed Sepulveda. "She really understands what we want her to do, and she's taking on more of a leadership role. It's great to have a kid like that that could contribute in that way so quickly."
The Cannoneers have an extended break from action before returning to Brooklyn next Friday, September 22, for a non-conference bout with the Panthers of Purchase College. First serve is scheduled for 7:00pm.
