Penn State Dominates Rutgers in Straight Sets

posted November 9, 2014 in CommRadio by Alex Bobbyn

The Penn State Nittany Lions (23-3, 11-2 B1G) came in to Friday evening’s matchup with six straight wins, looking to extend their streak against a struggling Rutgers team.  The Scarlett Knights (7-19, 0-13 B1G) had yet to win a game in the Big 10, and that streak would continue after Penn State dominated in front of their home crowd at Rec Hall.

Nearly 2,300 fans gathered to watch the Lady Lions as they rolled through the match in a three set sweep.  Penn State dominated the first set 25-11.  They were lead by freshmen Haleigh Washington and Ali Frantti, who combined for 22 kills on the night. 

The second set was more of the same, as Penn State continued their dominance by a score of 25-12.  Rutgers’ Micaela Anderson tried to spark some life into the Scarlett Knights, coming away with a pair of kills on the outside attack.  Mikaela Matthews and Eden Frazier also did well off the edge, combining for five kills.  However, it was Penn State’s physicality that set them apart from Rutgers’ best efforts.  

Heading into third set, Penn State had the upper hand.  They came out hot, leading the Scarlett Knights 9-3.  Rutgers tried their best to compete as Anderson and Matthews attempted to execute on numerous outside attacks.  Penn State defended well as Frantti and Simone Lee combined for three solo blocks.  The third game ended 25-10 as Penn State extended their winning streak to seven. 

Despite Penn State’s victorious efforts, head coach Russ Rose wasn’t completely satisfied.

“It was a good match for us, not a great match,” said Rose.

The Nittany Lions looked promising in the match, especially from the young players on the team.  Haleigh Washington, the 6-3 freshman out of Colorado Springs, continued what has been an impressive first season.  She was named Big 10 Player of the Week after Penn State got a pair of wins against Ohio State, and she lead the team Friday with 13 kills.  Kelly Robertson, a sophomore out of Allentown, PA, was able to see the floor late in the third set, coming away with a kill.

Robertson was glad she had the opportunity.

“Rec (Hall) is a great place to be able to play, it’s a great atmosphere,” said the sophomore.

Alex Bobbyn is a freshman majoring in Broadcast Journalism.  To contact him, please email aeb5671@psu.edu.