DALLAS, Pa. - Widener Men's Volleyball takes a tough road loss to the national #16 Cougars of Misericordia. 

The Pride fall to 12-9 on the season and 0-4 in conference play. 

BY THE NUMBERS 

• Matthew Christ led Widener's offensive effort with 12 kills, hitting at a .292 efficiency, while also adding 4 digs and 2 assists. 

• Josh Matchett was a key playmaker, recording 22 assists, 10 digs, and 3 kills, while also contributing 2 blocks. 

• Michael Martino added 6 kills and 3 digs, helping to keep Widener competitive. 

• Stephen Marquis was efficient with 4 kills on 6 attempts, posting a hitting percentage of .667, while also recording 1 service ace and 1 block assist. 

• Christian Wannamaker was active defensively with 8 digs, while also chipping in with 2 kills and 2 assists. 

HOW IT HAPPENED 

• Widener started strong in the first set, taking an early lead behind a kill from Michael Martino and a block by Matthew Christ and Josh Akinwale. The Pride traded points with Misericordia, keeping the set tight through multiple lead changes. Josh Matchett orchestrated the offense with key assists to Christ and Stephen Marquis, helping Widener stay within striking distance. However, Misericordia responded with a late 5-1 run to close out the set, capitalizing on a few service errors from Widener. The Pride dropped the opening frame 21-25. 

• The second set was the closest of the match, featuring three ties and multiple lead changes. Christ led the attack with several kills, while Matchett continued to spread the ball effectively. Marquis provided a momentum-shifting ace, and Wannamaker added a key defensive dig to keep a rally alive. Widener held a slim lead at 20-19, but Misericordia responded with a crucial 4-0 run, taking control in the final moments. Despite a late kill from Martino, Widener fell just short, 23-25. 

• The third set saw Widener fight to stay alive, with Christ and Marquis keeping the offense steady. A service ace from Marquis and a strong block by Matchett helped the Pride gain early momentum. However, a surge from Misericordia, fueled by a series of kills from their outside hitters, put Widener on the defensive. The Pride managed to close the gap to 19-22 after a kill from Christ, but Misericordia sealed the match with three straight points, ending the set 19-25 . 

UP NEXT 

The Pride continue their season with a home tri-match against Messiah and Baruch this Saturday, March 22. First serve is at 11am.