Pioneers steal a set from #5 Miami-Dade

Pioneers steal a set from #5 Miami-Dade

After capping off a four-game winning streak, the Pioneers looked to continue their winning ways against perennial powerhouse Miami-Dade. Entering the match ranked #5 in the NJCAA, the River knew they were going to have to play perfectly to take this opponent down.

The first game opened up and it didn't start well, with the River struggling in serve receive at the beginning, it became very difficult to run an offense with any chance of getting past Dade. But, as the game progressed the pioneers would settle into a groove and found a rhythm as they closed the gap before going down 16-25 in the first set.

The River would ride their energy they closed the first set with to take a commanding lead right out of the gate. Dade was unprepared for this big push from the Pioneers and they would struggle to find the court for the majority of the set. However, as the River prepared to shut the door, Miami-Dade made a big push and was able to get some momentum back as they eventually fell 21-25.

Tied at 1-1 the Pioneers felt good about their chances moving into set three, but they had woken the giant that is Miami Dade, and they took the floor with a new level of aggression. Whether it was from the service line, making flying digs, or tag the line kills, the Sharks stepped up and took the control back from the Pioneers. Though Indian River would put up an effective fight, Miami-Dade managed to close out the match in four sets, with the last games finishing 21-25 and 18-25.

Top performers against Miami-Dade include Greta Klotz (18 kills, 12 digs), Doris De Prato (12 kills, 11 digs) and Izabella Rae (40 assists, 6 digs)

This loss ends the 4-game win streak for the River and drops them to 5-6 Overall and 4-3 in the conference. Their next match is on Thursday September 23, at Daytona State College.