Championship Game Summary
RIH defeated Black Knights 15-13, 15-13
Three undefeated first place teams, Sideout, Black Knights, and RIH joined
nine other teams in the 1997 Co-Rec Volleyball Special Playoffs. RJH's first
round bye was followed by strong showings against Basic Shyte (15-8, 15-3)
and Just for Fun (15-1, 15-6) to reach the final game. Defending champions
and volleyball standouts, Sideout, found themselves in the semi-fmals without
hitting a ball due to a first round bye and a second round double forfeit. The
Black Knights won a thrilling match against Corona (17-19, 17-15, 8-15)
carried their momentum to another tough three set win over Sideout
(15-7, 10-15, 15-8).
ln the championship final RJH forged ahead and stayed ahead. Black Knights
had the lead for the first time at 12-11. They managed one more point before
surrendering the serve. Matt Turner's jump serve regained the lead and
earned RJH their first set point at 14-13. Black Knights managed a huge
sideout but could not capitalize. Kate Wilson finished off a very well played
first game with an ace.
RJH reeled off seven straight point before Sean Loughran's ace put Black
Knights on the board. Though Black Knights made some spectacular saves,
their offense sputtered and they found themselves trailing 11-2. Loughran's
serving closed the gap to 11-7 and forced RJH to call a time-out. RIH forged
a match point at 14-7. Amy Hood served a second match point only to be
denied. Black Knights inched closer 14-9. RIH was denied a third match
point. Sean Lougbran's three straight points tightened up the match 14-12.
RJH was denied a fourth match point. With Jeanne Wilson serving, Black
Knights capped off a remarkable comeback to 14-13. Matt Turner's jump
serve saved the day, won a thrilling game 15-13, and a well deserved
championship.
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