HACKENSACK, N.J. - Men's volleyball (10-13, 3-5) wrapped up the regular season in five-set loss to Merrimack (16-6). This was the second match between the two sides and a much more competitive battle. Freshman
Brandon Pho set his career high for assists with 45 on the match.
The first set was tight until the Warriors closed on a 4-1 run to take the opening game. In the second, FDU was in control leading throughout until the score got knotted at 20-20. Although Merrimack outhit the Knights, FDU would deliver crucial points and fought off a set-point. Senior
Jack Lydon ended the set with two kills evening the match.
Merrimack took back the lead in the match in the third set. FDU was up 13-12, but the Warriors went on a 5-1 run to build a little lead that they would not surrender. Both teams performed well offensively in the set, yet the Warriors edged out the Knights hitting .548 in the set and eventually won 25-22.
The fourth set would not end, lasting 34 minutes in what would be a 2 hour and 45 minute marathon. FDU had a 4-point lead at 17-13 and again at 19-15 but the visitors would tie it up at 22. A kill by
Jamal Ellis Carballo pushed the Knights to set-point and were able to force a decisive fifth set on an attack error. The fifth set was all Merrimack, who jumped out to a 6-3 lead and didn't look back closing it out 15-12.
FDU heads to Loretto, PA for the NEC Men's Volleyball Championship. As the four seed, FDU will play the top seeded Red Flash on Friday, April 25. The first serve will be announced during the week.
