Villanova Volleyball Keeps Playoff Hopes Alive, Battles for 3-2 Decision Over Seton Hall

Four Wildcats post double-digit kills to spark the offense

Sam Hartwell's strong defense helped lead the Wildcats to a 3-2 win over Seton Hall.

Nov. 9, 2003

VILLANOVA, PA. - The Villanova volleyball kept its playoff hopes alive and extended its winning streak to seven matches with a 3-2 win over Seton Hall in BIG EAST action on Sunday at Jake Nevin Field House. The Wildcats won the first two games, 30-23 and 30-26 before losing games three and four, 31-29 and 30-26. Villanova then squeezed out the 16-14 win in game five.

Erin Birunas sparked the Wildcats with 15 kills, while Celine Nguyen and Kerri Sullivan each managed 14 kills apiece. Kate Lanting finished with 13 kills in the game.

Defensively for Villanova, Sam Hartwell registered 19 digs and Nguyen totaled 18 digs. Jennifer Edwards led the squad with 28 assists, followed by Jennifer Badran-Grycan with 25 assists.

For Seton Hall (19-13, 2-9), Katherine Whitney posted a match-high 20 kills, with Jenna Meyers adding 18 and Shawn Mahmoudi managing 15 kills.

Villanova (12-13, 6-4) returns to action on Tuesday at 7 p.m. when Towson visits Jake Nevin Field House for a non-conference contest. Entering play on Sunday, the Wildcats trailed Virginia Tech and St. John's by a half game for the fourth and final spot in the conference tournament.

Villanova University