Women's College Volleyball

Rider University 3, Niagara University 0

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ—The Broncs defeated Niagara in straight sets in a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference match Sunday. “We played really well in every aspect,” said Rider head coach Chris Feliciano. 

The victory was the fifth in a row for the Broncs (13-11, 7-5 MAAC), who have now won seven of their last nine. “I tip my hat to the players,” Feliciano said.  “They are really focused on getting better. They are doing a great job of paying attention to detail.”

Rider won the first set 25-21, the second set 25-19 and the third set 25-18.

The Broncs were led by sophomore Hailey Riede (Haworth/Northern Valley-Demarest), who had 10 kills and four block assists.

Rider junior  Veronica Koval (Allentown, PA/Parkland) had 33 assists and 11 digs.  “Veronica had a heck of a day,” Feliciano said. “Good one-on-one situations, good ball placement and great location.”

Senior Ryan Ackermann (Ashburn, VA/Stone Bridge) had nine kills and 10 digs.

Graduate student Briana Guzman (North Bergen/Science Park) had seven kills with a .750 hitting percentage.

Niagara (9-14, 7-4 MAAC) had won its last five matches before falling to the Broncs Sunday. “They were ranked nationally in service aces but we did a really nice job today in limiting how many points they could score with their serve,” Feliciano said.

Rider lost 3-1 at Niagara earlier this season. Last year Rider defeated Niagara 3-1 here in Alumni Gym.

Niagara leads the all-time series with Rider 20-12.

Rider travels to Fairfield for a MAAC contest October 29. “Fairfield is undefeated in MAAC play and have already clinched a playoff spot,” Feliciano said. “If we can keep the same mindset and focus we'll be competitive, and that is all you can ask.”

-ru-