MEDIA, PA - Penn State Berks fell to Penn St. Brandywine in straight sets, 26-24, 25-13, 25-23, on Saturday, October 11 at Brandywine Commons Gym. 

Berks demonstrated strong offensive efforts early in the first set led by kills from Emily Snader and Julia Zaprazny, with Libby Swoyer facilitating key plays. The set saw multiple lead changes and was marked by Berks capitalizing on Brandywine's errors, allowing them to keep pace. Berks continued to show resilience as Madelyn Caris and Marissa Bailey contributed crucial points, while their defense held firm against Brandywine's attempts to pull away. However, Brandywine managed to edge out late in the set, closing with a narrow 26-24 victory.

The Nittany Lions began the second set with a defensive stop, as Snader contributed a block against Nia Moore's attack, marking a key early point. However, Brandywine countered with a series of attacks and service aces, extending their lead significantly. Despite a few errors from the opposing side, contributions from players like Swoyer and Caris, who each recorded kills, allowed Berks to gain some points. Brandywine maintained the upper hand throughout the set, capitalizing on several kills and aces, while limiting Berks to sporadic scoring. The set closed with Brandywine securing a commanding lead, taking a 2-0 lead in the match.

Berks began the third set with a determined approach, overcoming an initial deficit with a strong offensive display. Caris delivered a crucial kill from Swoyer. Swoyer's service ace brought the teams level, and Zaprazny followed with a kill that briefly gave the visitors a lead. Momentum shifted multiple times as both teams traded points. Key plays from Caris and Zaprazny, combined with blocks, pushed Berks to a two-point advantage. However, Brandywine responded with a series of kills from Hailey Piccirillo, eventually taking retaking the lead. Despite a late push from Berks, including kills from Ella Griffiths and Mackenzie Davis, Brandywine maintained their edge with effective serving. The set concluded with a 25-23 score in favor of Brandywine, as they capitalized on errors to secure the set and the match.

Caris led Berks with 10 kills and added 13 digs across the match. Zaprazny contributed with eight kills and four total blocks, enhancing the team's defensive efforts. Swoyer facilitated the offense with 20 assists and added two service aces.

WHO'S NEXT
Looking ahead, the Berks will host Notre Dame of Maryland University on Tuesday, Oct. 14, a 7:00 PM in Reading, PA.

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