HENNIKER, N.H. - The New England College Pilgrims Volleyball team is back in the win column after sweeping non-conference opponent Anna Maria College on Tuesday night.  

The team asserted their dominance quickly in the first set, jumping out to a 7-0 lead behind three service aces from senior Lily-Anne Heywood (Derry, N.H.). The Amcats tried to battle back, cutting the deficit to four, but a kill from junior Maeve Amarosa (Madbury, N.H.) sparked a 5-0 run. With the score at 23-16 junior Tyra Kelly (Fresno, Calif.) recorded a kill to set up graduate Alexandra Seijas-Quea (Fort Myers, Fla.) who sealed the set with a service ace, giving NEC the 25-16 win.  

The Pilgrims kept the momentum going in the second set, jumping out to another quick lead thanks to a 5-0 run sparked by freshman Maddy Rollinson (Hamden, Conn.). Amarosa again came through with a crucial kill to regain possession, and NEC maintained control throughout the frame, taking the second set 25-14.  

Anna Maria opened the third set with their first lead of the night, going 2-0. The Pilgrims quickly responded, tying the score on a kill from freshman Teagan Saner (Plains, Mont.).and taking the lead following an Amcat attack error. The set remained close, with Anna Maria keeping the deficit within five, but senior Jamie Hansen (New Underwood, S.D.). closed things out with an impressive 8-0 serving run to clinch the match 25-15.  

NEC (5-10) was led by junior Samantha Winters (Dover, N.H.) with seven kills. Saner tallied four aces, while Kelly recorded four blocks.  

The 'grims will be hosting Vermont State University – Castleton on Thursday. This will also be their Morgan's Message Dedication Game. The game is set for a 6PM start.  

 

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