Jersey City, N.J. (November 10, 2006)—Manhattan Volleyball guaranteed itself the fourth seed in the upcoming ten-team MAAC Tournament by sweeping past conference opponent Saint Peter's College on Friday night in the Yanitelli Center (30-26, 30-28, 30-27). With the victory, Manhattan moves its MAAC record to 9-8 and completes the season sweep of the Peahens.
Holding the No. 4 position in the MAAC Tournament means Manhattan will only be required to win three matches to claim the conference title. The seventh through tenth seeds must play in an extra opening round match.
Behind crisp passing from setter Alyssa Getzel and an efficient attack, Manhattan gave the Peahen defense plenty to be frustrated about. Freshman Rita Welsh and sophomore Sherrtya Stokes led a balanced attack with nine kills apiece, and all six starters, including Getzel, had at least four kills. Welsh added five blocks to her final line as well.
Lady Jasper senior Meghan Plunkett continued her strong second half by registering eight kills.
Already with a holding a commanding 2-0 lead in the match, the Lady J's tripped a bit to start the third frame. SPC jumped out to a 23-12 advantage, but Manhattan responded with an 11-0 run before securing the three-game victory.
Manhattan had received mixed results from its service game. The Lady Jaspers connected on 12 aces, but also made 13 miscues.
Before heading down to Orlando, Fla. For next week's conference tournament, Manhattan will close out regular season play at Marist College on Sunday, November 12. The Lady J's took the first meeting against the Red Foxes in five games back on September 30 at Draddy Gym.
