CHESTER, Pa. - Despite a strong fight through five sets, Widener Women's Volleyball fell just short against the Falcons of Messiah.
Widener drops to 13–11 on the year and falls to 4–2 in conference play.
BY THE NUMBERS
HOW IT HAPPENED
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Widener came out firing in the opening set, jumping to a commanding 10–0 lead behind Gabriella Bottino's dominant serving run that included four service aces and a string of offensive pressure. Benjamin and Ava Kramer fueled the attack with key kills early, while Chronister spread the offense efficiently. Despite a late push from Messiah, the Pride held firm as Benjamin and Bottino closed out the set 25–20 to give Widener the early edge.
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The Pride started strong once again, with Chronister serving back-to-back aces to give Widener early momentum. Airyn Zimmerman added a service ace and a kill as Widener pushed ahead 8–4, but the Falcons found their rhythm midway through the frame. Despite kills from Kramer and Bottino, the Falcons' attack proved too steady, as Widener dropped the second set 25–13.
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Widener fought to regain momentum in the third set, with Kramer and Hayley Haxton sparking the offense early and Bottino adding a kill to keep things close. Despite consistent effort at the net from Zimmerman and Benjamin, Messiah capitalized. The Pride battled late, but the Falcons held on to take the frame 25–16.
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The Pride bounced back strong in the fourth set, fueled by Benjamin's dominance at the net and Chronister's steady setting. Zimmerman and Benjamin made key plays at the net, combining for multiple blocks and a late service ace to swing momentum. Kaitlyn Guessford brought the frame to match point with a kill, and a Falcon error secured the 25–22 win and forced a decisive fifth set.
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Widener battled to the very end in a thrilling fifth set against Messiah. Benjamin continued her standout play with key kills, while Kramer and Chronister kept the Pride within striking distance. Despite tying the score several times late, Messiah pulled away in the final points to take the set 15–13.
UP NEXT
The Pride remain at home as they face Swarthmore College on Thursday, October 30. Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m.
