ITHACA, N.Y. – The Ithaca College volleyball team closed out its final regular-season home matches with a 3–1 victory over the SUNY Cortland Red Dragons in a competitive four-set matchup. After dropping the opening set, the Bombers responded with three consecutive set victories to secure the win over their rivals.
The Red Dragons came out firing in the opening set, taking an early lead after a back-and-forth start through the first 10 points. Cortland found its rhythm and went on a run to pull away from the Bombers, taking the first set, 25–13.
Ithaca responded in the second set, settling into its game and finding momentum on both sides of the ball. The two teams continued to battle early, but the Bombers began to create separation as the set progressed. Ithaca maintained control down the stretch, earning a 25–17 victory to even the match at one set apiece.
Carrying that momentum into the third set, the Bombers continued to apply pressure and execute offensively. Ithaca remained in control throughout the set, using consistent attacking and defensive play to secure another 25–17 win. The victory gave the Bombers a 2–1 advantage heading into the fourth set.
With the match on the line, Ithaca delivered another strong performance in the fourth set to close out the contest. The Bombers built on their momentum and maintained their lead, ultimately earning a 25–16 victory to complete the comeback and finish their final regular-season home matches on a high note.
Leading the way offensively for the Bombers,
Naomi Clauhs recorded a team-high 15 kills, while
Addison Leadbetter followed with 13 kills.
Wesley Slavin orchestrated the Ithaca offense with 39 assists and contributed five service aces.
Jamie Low led the defensive effort with 11 digs, while
Gabriela Gonzalez-Abreu and Slavin each added eight digs to help the Bombers close out the victory.
The Bombers will return to action on Friday, November 6, at 7 p.m., traveling to Williamsport, Pa., to take on Lycoming College as they close out their regular season on a three-game road trip.
