The De Anza College women’s volleyball team was defeated by Hartnell College in the final set on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
The Dons started the first set strong punishing Hartnell with constant strong hits and excellent teamwork. Hartnell managed to keep it close until the end, but De Anza won the first set 25-22.
Miscommunication thwarted De Anza’s ability to keep up with Hartnell’s early offensive aggression.
Midway through the second set, De Anza rallied, keeping it close until the end, but Hartnell took the set 22-25.
“[The Dons are] doing a good job of boosting morale when they get into tight situations,” said spectator and former player Tylyn Santos, nursing major.
In the beginning of the third set, De Anza used communication and teamwork to catch an early lead over Hartnell, but Hartnell caught up taking the set 20-25.
“[De Anza] has really improved since last year and this matchup is close, both teams are evenly matched” said John Phan, a fan of volleyball who came to support the Dons.
In the fourth set, De Anza and Hartnell went back and forth, up until the game was tied.
The Dons went on an eight point streak, giving them a commanding lead.
Everything was clicking for the Dons and their ability to use momentum was key in defeating Hartnell 25-19, forcing a fifth and final set.
“Momentum and teamwork are what De Anza is using to win; their ability to go on runs is amazing,” said Amanda Daysog, kinesiology major.
In the final set, De Anza started in poor fashion, giving Hartnell a 5-0 lead.
De Anza re-grouped and pushed the game to a 10-10 tie. Energy in the gym was at its highest at this point, with everyone rooting for the Dons to pull out a victory. Hartnell took the final set and the game 14-12.
