Marian University men’s volleyball (15-3, 3-1 NACC) defeated Lakeland in a non-conference match 25-18, 25-16, and 28-26.
Marian jumped out to a 7-3 lead to open the first set and pulled that lead to as large as 17-9. This allowed the Sabres to easily take the first set 25-18. The second set was a little closer at the start with Marian leading just 10-8. Th Sabres then went on a 12-6 spurt to expand their lead to 22-14 and go up 2-0.
Needing a win, the Muskies were able to get out to a fast start with a 7-3 lead. The Sabres gradually chipped away at the Lakeland lead and eventually took the lead at 14-13. Neither team led by more than two points down from there leading to a 23-23 tie. Each squad had a chance to end the set but it eventually went to extras at 25-25. Marian would be unable to put away the match for a second time, but the third time proved to be the charm for the Sabres to earn a sweep.
The Sabre defense dominated blocking seven total attacks and holding Lakeland to a zero hitting percentage. The Muskies would record a negative attack percentage in two of the three sets. Seniors Liam Skinner and Zach Zelenik each had three blocks to lead the net presence, while sophomore Derek Wills had a team-high eight digs.
Offensively, Skinner hit .545 and had a team-best seven kills, while Wills chipped in six kills with a service ace. Freshman Keanu Ouranitsas-Hayes had three service aces.
Marian travels to Wittenberg for a triangular taking on the Tigers for the second time this season and Trine Sunday, February 27.
