LAKE WALES, Fla. — The Warner University men's volleyball team showed resilience Thursday night at the Turner Athletic Center, pushing conference-leading Reinhardt University to the brink in the final set before falling 3-0 (12-25, 16-25, 24-26) in Appalachian Athletic Conference play.
Reinhardt came out strong in the opening set, hitting efficiently and capitalizing on early runs to claim a 25-12 win. The Eagles carried momentum into the second frame, limiting extended rallies and taking the set 25-16.
The third set told a different story.
Warner settled in offensively and defensively, finding rhythm in transition and at the service line. The Royals recorded 11 kills in the frame and battled through seven tie scores and three lead changes. With the home crowd energized, Warner pushed Reinhardt to extra points before the Eagles narrowly secured the set, 26-24.
Romone Rudolph led the Royals offensively with eight kills, while Darion Graham added seven kills and two service aces. Meric Akovali distributed 17 assists to pace the offense, and Kj Harrison anchored the back row with five digs.
Warner totaled 22 kills, five blocks, and three aces on the night, showing growth and fight as conference play continues.
The Royals return to the court Friday, February 20, hosting Life University at 8 p.m. as part of the Appalachian Athletic Conference Pod in Lake Wales at the Turner Athletic Center.
Match Leaders
Team Stats
- Points: 30
- Kills: 22
- Aces: 3
- Blocks: 5
- Assists: 20
- Digs: 18
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