The Niagara Knights Men's Volleyball Program (5-2) recorded their fourth straight victory, defeating the St. Clair College Saints on Sunday, November 25th. The Knights won the match in straight sets 26-24, 27-25, 25-14.
The Knights started slowly against the Saints needing extra points to earn victories in both of the first two sets. Head Coach Nate Groenveld described the Saints as "as a tough, much improved team" that provided a real challenge in the opening two frames.
Offensively the Knights struggled early in the match, relying on a strong team defense to win sets one and two. The Knights' previous two matches saw the team out block their opponents 31-16. Against the Saints however, the key to victory was a strong back court defense.
Leading the way defensively for the Knights was third year setter Brad Wall. The five-foot-nine Private Investigation student finished the game with 13 digs, while also adding two stuff blocks and a service ace.
The Knights offense developed rhythm and momentum in the third set. The dominant 25-14 final frame victory was anchored by the explosive offensive attack of first year outside hitter Jeff Scott. The Georgetown native finished the match with 12 kills, two service aces, and seven digs. The effort help Scott earn current Male Athlete of the Week honours.
Coach Groenveld commented that his team "continues to find ways to win." He credits the victory this weekend to "a calmness and execution in the closing points of sets."
During the team's current four game winning streak the Knights have relied on a variety of strategies, players, and big plays to earn victories. Coach Groenveld noted that winning teams "find a way to win and right now we are finding those ways."
The men's volleyball program will close out 2012 with a pair of tough road matches against two of the top teams in the OCAA. Friday, November 30th will see the Knights visit the #2 ranked Redeemer Royals (5-2), before finishing 2012 on Tuesday, December 4th against the #5 ranked Mohawk Mountaineers (5-2).
All Niagara College men's volleyball home games can be seen in their entirety at www.sportslive.ca.
