New Haven Edges Sullivan In Sweep

New Haven built up a big lead in the first set and gradually pulled away in the second set Tuesday at Sullivan, dealing the Lady Eagles an 18-25, 21-25 loss.

Sullivan chipped away after falling behind and maintained a slim lead against one of the area’s volleyball powerhouses. Head coach Sarah Rochleau said it was disappointing.

“New Haven has a very talented team, but they gave us many chances to take the lead in that match and were unable to take advantage of those opportunities,” Rochleau said.

Sullivan fell behind 5-0 and 10-4, taking a timeout to regroup. They climbed within 11-7 on an ace by Mallory Shetley. New Haven would pick up the next six rallies and take a 17-9 lead. Lauren Hoffman served an ace and the Shamrocks hit the ball out of bounds as part of four straight Sullivan winners.

New Haven regained momentum and took a 24-17 lead when they recorded a double block as Shetley tried tipping the ball over the net. Shetley kept Sullivan alive with a block, but New Haven took the set on a kill by Emma Engelbrecht.

Sullivan had a pair of leads early in the second set and wouldn’t let New Haven bust open the game. Down 11-9, Shetley had a kill and Hofman an ace to tie the game. The Shamrocks took the lead again, but Mallory Shetley and Clare Shetley boosted the Eagles to a 13-12 lead.

After Mallory Shetley brought Sullivan within 15-14, the Shamrocks finally picked up the next three rallies, forcing Sullivan into a timeout.

Lock killed a New Haven rally out of the break, but the Shamrocks remained on top and finished off the set.

Hoffman had nine points, two aces, two kills and seven assists, while Shetley had two points, two aces, a team-high eight kills and two blocks.

Katie Creek had four points.