William Smith volleyball opened Liberty League play with a three-set victory Friday, rallying from a six-point deficit in the third set to sweep Union 25-11, 25-22, 26-24 at Bristol Gymnasium.
The win moved the Herons to 8-2 overall and 1-0 in conference play, while Union dropped to 7-4 and 0-1.
William Smith controlled the match statistically, finishing with 43 kills compared with 27 for Union while holding advantages in digs, assists and service aces. The Herons recorded 61 digs, 41 assists and 12 aces.
First-year Cassidy Breuer led William Smith with 11 kills and 11 digs for her fourth double-double of the season. She also served three aces. Emily Fulton added nine kills and 10 digs, while Maren Hunt recorded eight kills and a team-high five blocks.
The Herons dominated the opening set, producing 19 kills while limiting Union to six as they cruised to a 25-11 win. Union responded in the second set, but William Smith held off a late push to win 25-22.
The Garnet Chargers appeared poised to extend the match in the third set after building an 18-12 advantage. William Smith erased the deficit, forcing extra points before Breuer delivered back-to-back service aces. A Heron block then finished the comeback at 26-24.
Delainy Williams contributed 34 assists, 12 digs and three aces, while Libero Kali Vanderhoof led William Smith with 14 digs.
The Herons continue Liberty League play Saturday against Vassar at Bristol Gymnasium. First serve is scheduled for 2 p.m.
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Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.