Oct. 2, 2001
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - The 24th-ranked Santa Clara University volleyball fell to fourth-ranked Stanford in four games tonight at the Leavey Center. Game scores were 26-30, 30-20, 30-24, 30-21. With the loss, SCU falls to 8-5 overall, while Sanford improves to 10-1.
The Broncos opened the night strong, winning the first frame behind six kills from sophomore Jessie Mechem and five from sophomore Becky Potter. Four blocks by freshman Toni Muratore, including two in a row to put the Broncos up 17-13, and another to give the Broncos game one.
Stanford's defense became stronger in game two, posting five blocks as SCU was outhit .343 to .050 in the frame. On the night, the Cardinal outblocked Santa Clara 21 to 6, including three block assists in four points by Robyn Lewis and Sara McGee to open the third frame. The teams exchanged leads numerous times, but again, strong blocking helped keep the Cardinal ahead as the match moved to the final set.
Two straight service aces by senior Jami Bari gave the Broncos their first lead of game four at 8-6. Stanford regained its edge, but consecutive blocks by Potter tied the frame and returned the Broncos' edge at 13-12. Ogonna Nnamani's 17th and final kill of the night was earned on match point.
Stanford's Logan Tom led all attackers with 23 kills and added 14 digs. McGee finished with 12 blocks to lead the Cardinal defensively.
Potter finished with 18 kills to lead the Broncos while Mechem added 14 and Muratore 11.
The Broncos remain at home through the weekend, returning to league play on Friday against Gonzaga and Saturday against Portland. Both matches will begin at 7 p.m. on their respective dates at the Leavey Center.