Menlo at Academy of Art - Game Stats

Menlo Season Stats

SAN FRANCISCO - Facing a tough opponent that had its number, Menlo College pulled out tight games to open and close a 25-23, 25-19, 19-25, 25-23 victory over NCAA Div. II Academy of Art on Tuesday night at Kezar Pavilion.

The Oaks lost their first three matches against Academy of Art dating to last season, but turned the tables on an Urban Knights team that they lost to in four games three weeks ago. On Sept. 22, Menlo fell 25-23, 25-16, 20-25, 25-21 in a competitive match during which Academy of Art showed the ability to close out tight games.

Menlo's attack proved to be potent, but its net defense was key. Five different Oaks had a part in at least two blocks as the team totaled nine. Deborah Bekowies led Menlo with 15 kills at hitting percentage of .448 and assisted on six blocks. Sarah Poole had 11 kills and three blocks while Kelsey Bailey tallied eight blocks and 13 digs. Stephanie Williamson had 39 assists and six kills, Katie Pendley seven kills and two blocks, and Brittany Sudduth 10 digs and four blocks.

Amy Bush, Dan Yang and Jelena Jakovljevic totaled 17, 16 and 13 kills, respectively, for Academy of Art, but the Oaks forced the Urban Knights into 20 errors. Menlo had 11 errors as a team, but eight were service errors.

Menlo improves to 9-9 overall and still holds a 5-0 California Pacific Conference record heading into home matches this weekend. The Oaks host Simpson on Friday night and Holy Names on Saturday with both matches starting at 7 p.m. Academy of Art is 15-7 overall and 4-3 in the Pacific West Conference.