Houghton, N.Y. - The SUNY Poly women's volleyball team was unable to find its rhythm on Friday night, falling in straight sets to Houghton University by scores of 25–14, 25–17, and 25–16. Despite stretches of strong play and balanced contributions across the lineup, the Wildcats couldn't sustain momentum against a consistent Highlander attack. The Wildcats are now 6-11 (0-4 Empire 8) on the season.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
Houghton got off to a fast start in the opening set behind strong distribution from Logan Baer and attacking finishes from Alexa Belanger and Maryn Voortman. Houghton's front line forced several errors and mixed in timely kills to build a clear advantage. Service pressure from Emma Cole and steady play at the net helped Houghton close out the frame 25–14.
SUNY Poly showed fight in the second set, with Daniella Aluisio, Kassity Cruz and Grace Southwick producing key points and stretches of effective offense. But Houghton answered with a deep rotation of attackers — Baer continued to set well while Belanger and Voortman converted on multiple opportunities. Emma Cole also pressured the Wildcats with strong serving and a few aces, and Houghton's ability to sustain runs late in the set allowed them to take it 25–18.
The third set followed a similar pattern. SUNY Poly battled early and had moments when Aluisio and Jade Taylor threatened to rally the Wildcats, but Houghton's balanced attack and disciplined serving again swung momentum. A string of well-placed kills and service-generated points gave the Highlanders control down the stretch, and they closed the match with a 25–16 final set.
UP NEXT:
SUNY Poly has a quick turnaround as they will travel to Alfred University for a 1:00 P.M. match with the Saxons on October 11th.
