The Houghton Highlanders hosted Roberts Wesleyan University for a cross-town doubleheader at the Nielsen Center on Saturday. While the Redhawks managed to sweep both contests, the Highlanders showed significant growth between the two matches, tightening their defensive rotations and increasing their offensive efficiency in the nightcap. The twin bill served as a high-speed tune-up for Houghton as they prepare to jump back into critical conference play.

The Essentials

• Match 1: Houghton 0, Roberts Wesleyan 3 (12-25, 22-25, 19-25)
  • Attendance: 177
• Match 2: Houghton 0, Roberts Wesleyan 3 (22-25, 9-25, 20-25)
  • Attendance: 106
• Location: Houghton, NY | Nielsen Center
• Team Records: Houghton 4-12 (3-2 AMCC) | Roberts Wesleyan - 10-8 (0-0 ECC)

Key Moments

• Match 1
  • Even Battle Early
    Houghton stayed within striking distance through much of the opening set, matching Roberts Wesleyan point-for-point before the Redhawks created separation late to secure the first set. The Highlanders' steady passing and offense kept the score close into the later stages.
  • Second Set Push
    The Highlanders again competed closely in the second set, keeping the margin within a few points through the middle portion of the frame. Roberts Wesleyan used a late scoring run to claim the set and take a two-set advantage.
  • Roberts Pull Away Late
    In the third set, Roberts Wesleyan built early momentum and maintained control to close out the match. Despite continued defensive effort from the Highlanders, the Redhawks secured the straight-set victory.
• Match 2
  • Early Redhawk Momentum
    Roberts Wesleyan established control early in the opening set, using a strong offensive rhythm to build a lead and force the Highlanders to play from behind. Houghton continued to battle through long rallies but the Redhawks maintained the advantage to take the first set.
  • Highlanders Compete Through Middle Sets
    Houghton showed improvement as the match progressed, putting together several scoring runs and extending rallies through consistent defensive play. The Highlanders stayed competitive through portions of the middle sets but Roberts Wesleyan capitalized on key stretches to maintain control of the match.
  • Roberts Wesleyan Closes Out the Match
    Despite continued effort from the Highlanders late in the match, Roberts Wesleyan used efficient offense to secure the final set and complete the victory. Houghton continued to fight for points down the stretch but could not overcome the Redhawks' sustained pressure.

Key Highlander Stats

• Weekend Totals: 36 Kills, 40 Digs, 13 Blocks, 6 Aces
• Jonah Sissel: 17 Kills, 5 Digs
• Devin Cline: 7 Kills, 8 Digs
• Jerry Buno: 28 Assists, 8 Digs
• Jared Wright: 4.5 Blocks

Looking Ahead
The Highlanders return to the Nielsen  on Tuesday, February 24^th for a non-conference matchup against St. John Fisher, where Houghton will look to bounce back and build momentum against another regional opponent. First serve is scheduled for 7:00pm.