WENHAM, Ma.— The Stormy Petrels stormed through their season opener with a 3-0 sweep against Lasell University Friday evening. Led by senior Jackie Schner and juniors Cate Rosenthal and Ellie Alfonso, Oglethorpe won in three straight sets (25-22, 25-15, 25-11) in their first match of the Gordon Invitational.
Schner's line featured 12 kills and eights digs, followed by Alfonso's nine kills and Rosenthal's eight kills — both of them with seven digs each. Sophomores Gabbi Phillips and Maddie Drawdy led the team in assists with 16 and 12, respectively.
The first set was intense all the way through the end in a back and forth effort that was tied as late as 22-22. The Petrels were able to close out the first set 25-22 thanks to Rosenthal's set ending kill.
The Petrels came out flying in the second set and got off to an early 14-7 lead. Lasell was able to fight their way back in the game, down by one, bringing the score to 17-16. From there on out it was all Petrels as Schner closed out the set with a tip securing the 2-0 lead, with a 25-18 win.
The third set followed suit with Oglethorpe winning the final set 25-11.
Oglethorpe's game opener showcased a strong defensive performance, led by junior Sofia Cendoya with 11 digs, and Phillips with nine digs.
Match Notes
- The win marked the first for first-year head coach Danielle Shearer
- Cendoya added five service aces which tied her career high
- Oglethorpe as a team combined for 10 service aces
- Alfonso played a key role late in the opening set at 22-22 by tallying a kill then a service ace to put the Petrels ahead for good
Up next
This match is only the first of three for the Petrels this weekend, as they look to add on to their early-season success Saturday against MIT and host team Gordon College at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
