Arlington, Va - The Southern Virginia men's volleyball team added another impressive victory to their record, maintaining their flawless conference and season run by dispatching the #20 ranked Saints of Marymount University (20-6, 6-1) in three decisive sets, with scores of 25-11, 27-25, and 25-20.
Southern Virginia ignited the match with an impressive offensive onslaught, securing six unanswered points. Despite timeouts called by the Saints, Southern Virginia surged ahead to an 18-6 lead, with Jeremy Brown delivering three service aces, prompting another timeout from Maryville. Kills from Jeremy Brown and Samuel Candland sealed the set with a convincing 25-11 win. The Knights tallied eight kills on a remarkable .467 hitting percentage and delivered five service aces, effectively dismantling the Saints' attack to a negative .316 hitting percentage.
In the second set, a shift in dynamics occurred as the offensive prowess of the Saints awakened, propelling them to a quick 4-0 lead. Despite this, Brown and Candland swiftly leveled the score for Southern Virginia. However, the Saints' defense stifled the Knights' attack, outblocking them 4-1. The lead oscillated back and forth throughout the set, with neither team holding a lead of more than three points. A late surge by Marymount injected renewed energy into the match, but Christian Sheaffer responded decisively with three crucial kills. His contributions proved pivotal in sealing the second set win for Southern Virginia, with a score of 27-25. The Knights accumulated 18 kills and matched the Saints with a .394 hitting percentage, ensuring they remained competitive throughout the set.
In the third set, Southern Virginia's potent attack reached its peak, putting the game to rest with a total of 16 kills. Led by the offensive contributions of Evans, Christian Sheaffer, Kristo Bianchin, and Candland, the Knights surged ahead by six points and never relinquished their lead, ultimately closing out the set with a score of 25-20.
Samuel Candland and Kyler Evans both achieved their season-highs in kills with nine each, while Christian Sheaffer led the game with an impressive 10 kills. Jaren Brown showcased his prowess with a clutch performance, delivering five aces, while Tyler Sheaffer led in digs and assists with nine and 34, respectively.
The Knights now return home for their final regular-season home game as they host Randolph-Macon College. Southern Virginia aims to secure their first perfect season in history. The game is set to start at 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 6th, in the Knight Arena.
For all the most up-to-date information regarding Southern Virginia University men's volleyball, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knightmvolleyball on Instagram.
