SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - The No. 12 Ithaca College volleyball team battled back from an 0-2 deficit to complete a thrilling reverse sweep over Skidmore College Saturday afternoon, defeating the Thoroughbreds, 3-2, in Liberty League action. After dropping the opening two sets, the Bombers responded by winning three straight to improve to 4-0 in Liberty League play.
Skidmore controlled the opening set, taking an early advantage before securing a 25-16 victory to put the Bombers behind early.
The Thoroughbreds carried that momentum into the second set, holding off Ithaca for a 25-18 win. Facing an 0-2 deficit, the Bombers needed a response to keep the match alive.
Ithaca answered in the third set, coming out with renewed energy and establishing control throughout the frame. The Bombers pulled away for a 25-19 victory, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and forcing a fourth set.
The fourth set belonged to Ithaca from the start. The Bombers dominated the Thoroughbreds, cruising to a 25-12 victory to even the match at two sets apiece and force a decisive fifth set.
With the match on the line, Ithaca carried its momentum into the final frame. The Bombers battled through the pressure and closed out the comeback with a 15-11 victory, completing the reverse sweep and earning their fourth consecutive Liberty League win.
Naomi Clauhs led the Bombers offensively with 22 kills, while
Addison Leadbetter anchored the defense at the net with a team-high six blocks.
Brianna Owen added four blocks of her own.
Wesley Slavin orchestrated the offense with 38 assists, while
Jamie Low paced the Bombers defensively with 14 digs.
Gabriela Gonzalez-Abreu followed with 13 digs.
The victory keeps the No. 12 Bombers perfect in Liberty League play at 4-0 and extends their winning streak.
Ithaca will return to action next weekend when it travels to New Jersey for the Kean/William Paterson Invitational. The Bombers will open the weekend against Kean University on Friday at 5 p.m., looking to continue their strong start to the season.
Â
