On Saturday the No.-3 Pepperdine men’s volleyball team toppled the George Mason Patriots in three straight games 30-27 30-22 and 30-23 at Firestone Fieldhouse. The first game started off rough with the ball and points going back and forth. Sophomore outside hitter Cory Riecks and junior middle blocker Rodnei Santos held up the team with powerhouse blocks in key situations. The end of the game got too close for comfort as the teams were locked up at 212223 24 and 25 points. “We had defense and passing issues said senior outside hitter Matt Mckee. But we finally won the game because our passing got smoother.” Pepperdine was up 29-27 when senior middle blocker Mark Hulse replaced sophomore setter Kasey Crider for game point. Reicks then dug the ball Hulse set and McKee hammered it down to win the game 30-27. “As a coach that’s the way you want it said Head Coach Marv Dunphy. A great up smooth set and then putting the ball away.”
Game two rolled more smoothly for the Waves who quickly jumped out in front 10-5. With all the momentum harnessed on Pepperdine’s side George Mason called a time out. The Waves received more points as senior opposite hitter Paul Carroll and Santos both hit in front of the 10-foot line on the Patriots’ side. The Malibu Roofing Co. was open for business with a 3-up block by Caroll Riecks and sophomore middle blocker Tyler Jaynes. With Pepperdine leading 24-14 junior outside hitter Sean Pederson replaced Jaynes and Mason called a time out. Freshman outside hitter Chase Ross substituted for Reicks and had several sharp serves smart hits and a kill that led to the match point. “I see everything in practice and Chase earned his playing time Dunphy said. The longest rally of the game was for game point as Pepperdine pulled through with the win, 30-22. The third game opened with a sliding pancake by junior libero Sean Grubbs. Pepperdine played wise, tricking the Patriots with tips in just the right spot. A laser shot by Carroll pushed the score to 9-7. There were then several severing errors from both teams and the game was up for grabs. Senior outside hitter Brent Schirripa subbed in for Riecks and had great digs along with a game-point serve. Junior setter Kyle Luongo replaced Crider and, for the match win, Luongo and Hulse notched a stuff block, 30-23. Tonight at 7 p.m. the Waves will take on No.-5 USC at Firestone Fieldhouse. I like to coach with the idea that we always plan to win Dunphy said. USC has good talent and it’s going to be a great match.”
In their last meeting Jan. 30 the Waves walked over the Trojans with a 3-0 home sweep. “Since we embarrassed them the first time I hope that USC is going to be lookin’ for revenge McKee said.