Utica, N.Y. - The SUNY Poly men's volleyball team picked up their first conference win of the season, defeating the Russell Sage Gators in five sets. Strong performances from Corey Hollingsworth, Peter Gottler and Kaiden Ranger helped lift the Wildcats to a 13-9 record.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
Set 1: SUNY Poly 25, Russell Sage 14
The set kicked off with the Wildcats taking an early lead and never looking back. Joshua Slater's setting and Corey Hollingsworth's consistent kills were key to the team's success. A string of errors from the Gators, including attack errors and service mistakes, contributed to SUNY Poly's lead. By the time the set ended, the Wildcats had firmly controlled the pace, closing it out 25-14.
Set 2: SUNY Poly 25, Russell Sage 20
SUNY Poly came out stronger in Set 2, but Russell Sage responded with a balanced offensive attack led by Peter Gottler and Kaiden Ranger. Despite several kills midway through from the Gators, SUNY Poly's solid defense and execution of crucial plays helped them seal a 25-20 win.
Set 3: Russell Sage 25, SUNY Poly 19
In Set 3, Sage bounced back. The set saw key plays from both teams, with several errors from SUNY Poly hampering their chances. However, a powerful kill from Gottler and consistent contributions from Brawn, Adam and Hollingsworth gave the Wildcats a chance. Unfortunately, the Gators would go on a run, and would win the set 25-19.
Set 4: Russell Sage 25, SUNY Poly 23
Russell Sage fought back in the fourth set, ultimately pushing the match to a fifth set. They capitalized on several mistakes by the Wildcats, including errors from Brawn and company. A late string of kills, coupled with service aces, allowed the Gators to edge out the Wildcats 25-23, forcing the match to go the distance.
Set 5: SUNY Poly 15, Russell Sage 9
The deciding set was full of action, but the Wildcats proved to be the stronger team down the stretch. A clutch performance from Kaiden Ranger and Corey Hollingsworth secured their victory, closing out the set 15-9. Despite early momentum from the Gators, SUNY Poly tightened their defense and capitalized on errors to finish the match in their favor.
