ELGIN, Ill. - Rockford University (0-7) dropped its second match of the day in straight sets, this one coming at the hands of Aquinas College (9-3). The Saints are probably the best team the Regents have played thus far this season, as Aquinas has already won eight matches in straight sets. Unfortunately, today was more of the same, with Aquinas coming out on top by a final score of 3-0 (25-10, 25-13, 25-10).
- The match got off to a rocky start, with Rockford quickly falling behind 12-3.
- Rockford was able to answer with four straight points to pull back within five. Randall Simental led the RU attack with back-to-back service aces.
- Unfortunately, the Saints closed the set on a 13-3 run to grab a quick 1-0 lead.
- The second set got off to a much better start. After losing the first point, Rockford scored the next two points to take its first lead of the match. Jorge Pando accounted for both points off a kill and an ace.
- However, the Saints responded with a 6-1 run to retake the lead.
- Unfortunately, Rockford was never able to get any closer than three points the remainder of the way, as Aquinas won the second set by a final score of 25-13.
- The final set had a similar feeling to it as the first. The Saints opened the set by scoring 12 of the first 16 points to grab an early lead.
- The Regents were able to get back within seven on several occasions, with the latter coming at 13-6.
- However, the Saints once again closed the set strong. Aquinas used a 12-4 run to win the third set and take the match by a final score of 3-0.
The Rockford University men's volleyball team is set to play two more matches on Saturday at the Judson Invitational. Rockford opens with Goshen at 12:30 PM, followed by Lincoln at 4:30 PM.
