Rochester, N.Y. — The SUNY Poly women's volleyball team battled through a five-set thriller on Saturday afternoon but came up just short against Nazareth University, falling 3–2. The Wildcats are now 6-15 (0-8 Empire 8) on the season. 

HOW IT HAPPENED: 

SUNY Poly started fast in the first set, using efficient hitting and tough serving to build an early lead. Daniella Aluisio and Kassity Cruz paced the offense with key kills, while Grace Southwick directed the attack with precision. Catherine McCourt added pressure from the service line and the Wildcats closed out the frame 25–22 to take a 1–0 match lead. 

Nazareth responded in the second with a more aggressive attack, forcing Poly to defend several extended rallies. Despite a strong defensive effort from Samantha Dee, who continued to anchor the back row, the Wildcats struggled to maintain their early rhythm. Cruz and Kylee DeCarr each recorded key kills to keep SUNY Poly within striking distance, However, Nazareth closed with a short run to win 25–19, evening the match at one set apiece.

The Wildcats turned the tide in the third, regaining control through balanced play at the net. Aluisio ignited the comeback with a string of powerful kills, while Southwick continued to set the pace offensively. McCourt's steady serving and Mumbulo's presence on the block helped Poly capture the set 25–20.

Nazareth bounced back in the fourth, capitalizing on Wildcat errors and timely hitting to regain control. Despite solid play from McCourt and consistent energy from the SUNY Poly bench, the Golden Flyers edged out a 25–20 win to force a decisive fifth set.

The final frame was a tense, back-and-forth battle. SUNY Poly jumped out to an early lead behind Aluisio's sharp hitting and McCourt's strong serving, but Nazareth clawed back to even the score at 14–14. Despite clutch plays from the Wildcats down the stretch, Nazareth managed to close out the 16–14 set to seal the match.

UP NEXT: The Wildcats will have a quick turnaround as they will now travel to Saint John Fisher University for a matchup with the Cardinals on October 25th at 12:00 P.M