RIVERDALE, N.Y. - The Sarah Lawrence women's volleyball team defeated the Mount Saint Vincent Dolphins three sets to none on Tuesday night, with set scores of 25-9, 25-13 and 25-9. The Gryphons are now 2-1 in conference play this season, with their lone defeat coming at the hands of the reigning Skyline champions, Manhattanville University.
Notable Performers
- Nikolet Vataj led the SLC offense with 12 kills, adding in 11 digs and six aces
- Georgi Massey totaled a match-high 16 digs to go along with five kills and a trio of aces
- Valerie Hertig racked up 28 assists while also contributing three timely kills and an ace of her own
How it Happened
The Gryphons opened the first set with a commanding performance, quickly pulling ahead and never looking back. Nikolet Vataj and Georgi Massey were instrumental, with Vataj notching several kills and service aces, propelling Sarah Lawrence to a quick 8-1 lead. Massey contributed a strong defensive effort, and by mid-set, the Gryphons had built a 20-5 advantage. UMSV struggled to find their rhythm, managing only 9 points as Sarah Lawrence took the set, 25-9.
In the second set, Sarah Lawrence faced a more resilient UMSV side, but still managed to control the pace of play. Once again, Vataj was a force at the net, combining well with setter Valerie Hertig. Sarah Lawrence's efficient attack, coupled with solid defense, saw them extend their lead to 12-7. Although UMSV closed the gap with a brief surge, Massey and Vataj steadied the Gryphons with key kills to reclaim momentum. The set remained competitive until Sarah Lawrence pulled away late, closing out a 25-23 win to take a 2-0 lead.
The final set showcased Sarah Lawrence's depth and consistency. Massey, continuing her impressive form, delivered a series of crucial plays that kept the pressure on UMSV. The Gryphons raced to a 9-1 lead early, with Vataj and Athena Kazos contributing key points. UMSV's errors compounded their struggles, allowing Sarah Lawrence to coast to a 25-9 victory, sealing the match in straight sets.
Up Next
The Gryphons (8-5, Skyline 2-1) will return to aciton on Thursday as they head to Westbury, N.Y. to take on the Panthers of Old Westbury for another Skyline matchup. The match will begin at 6:00 p.m. from the Clark Athletic Center on Old Westbury's campus.