FULLERTON, CA – Menlo Women's Volleyball is now 11-2 thus far in the 2023 season and is now on an 8 match winning streak after their victory over Hope International in 4 sets. It was neck-and-neck this match but Menlo overpowered the Royals in aces to edge out the win. The GSAC is close in the standings so far with Vanguard leading the way followed by Life Pacific and Menlo in a close battle for the top of the conference. All 3 teams have won each conference match thus far in GSAC play. Menlo takes on Vanguard tomorrow in a duel to remain undefeated.
Rainaud Ace Seals the Deal
Long scoring runs were in Menlo's favor tonight going up against Hope International in their home court. The end of the first set ended with a 6-point run in favor of the Oaks. Back-to-back sets from Paige Harmann to Giulia Marinelli for the kills to win 25-18. Although Menlo went ahead 5-1 to begin the second set, it ended in the Royals hands by a score of 27-25. From there Menlo took control of the match. It was a block party for Shawna Thompson and Ayanna Barham who each totaled 4 block assists in just this set. A Royals attack error would end the set 25-19. Menlo gained their mojo back to end it in four. What better way to win than an Amey Rainaud-Hinds ace to take the final set, 25-21. Menlo defense gets the win today totaling 84 digs and 8 blocks as a team.
Thompson and Barham Combine for 9 Blocks in Defensive Battle With Royals
Giulia Marinelli put on a show on the offensive side with 15 kills, hitting a .314 percent, all on top of adding 7 digs. Jazmyn Tubbs was a close second with 11 kills. Beatrice Manzon totaled 4 aces against the Royals. She also set 15 assists, landed 2 kills, and added 6 digs. Paige Harmann set 18 assists and was also able to land a kill. Shawna Thompson continues to roof the opponents in the GSAC, leading the day with 5 block assists. Her partner in crime in this match was Ayanna Barham who also added 4 block assists. Amey Rainaud-Hinds earned another 32 digs in this match to increase her season total up to 312. Amey is 5th in the NAIA in digs per set currently with 6.24. Another dominant effort from Menlo to stay undefeated in GSAC play!
Up Next….
Quick turnaround for the Oaks as they head to Costa Mesa, CA to take on the Vanguard Lions at 2pm on Saturday, September 16. Both teams are 3-0 and there can only be one winner… this is one match you do not want to miss!
