Volleyball team sweeps Siena

The Binghamton volleyball team defeated Siena in straight sets, 25-18, 25-13 and 25-22, on Sept. 22. This marks the second consecutive season that Binghamton has swept Siena.

“It was our best blocking performance of the year,” head coach Glenn Kiriyama said. “We played a nice match overall and it felt good to get a quick win under out belt. The girls played well together and showed the ability to perform when needed.”

Siena was able to jump out on the Bearcats early in the first set thanks to a 4-0 run, giving the Saints a 10-5 advantage. Binghamton battled back and evened the set at 15 on senior hitter Anna Lejina’s kill. A block by sophomore middle Alex Roland and Lejina gave Binghamton a late 18-15 lead. Siena never recovered and a kill by Lejina gave the Bearcats the first-set victory.

Binghamton carried its momentum into the second set, establishing a 6-2 lead on a kill by sophomore transfer Iva Partaleva. The Bearcats continued to build on their lead throughout the set, never allowing Siena any closer than two. A 6-0 run, highlighted by a block and kill by Roland, gave Binghamton the two sets to none advantage.

The third set was a back-and-forth affair that eventually led to Siena gaining an 18-14 edge. The Bearcats displayed their determination to win however, after going down 22-20 late. A 5-0 run helped them close out Siena and secure their fifth victory of the season.

Lejina lead the way for the Bearcats, registering 13 kills, five digs and four blocks. Junior setter Julie Chambers tallid 28 assists, seven digs, two blocks and a service ace.