Center Valley, Pa.- The Hunter College women's volleyball team dropped two matches at the DeSales University Trimatch this weekend, falling 0-3 to hosting DeSales, and 1-3 to Montclair State. With the two non-conference matches in the books, the Hawks dropped to 18-7 overall, while DeSales moved to 9-14 and Montclair was pushed to 16-6.

Match 1: DeSales 3, Hunter 0
In an intense four-set battle against DeSales University, the Hawks started the day as the team displayed resilience but ultimately fell 3-1, with set scores of 20-25, 25-23, 21-25, and 20-25. Each set saw Hunter's lineup dig deep to remain competitive, showcasing strong performances from key players.

Amina Moummad led the offensive charge for the Purple and Gold, tallying a team-high 12 kills with a solid .258 hitting percentage. Lily Mattison added nine kills and maintained efficiency with a .273 hitting percentage, adding crucial points in high-pressure moments. Bethany Tomaneng orchestrated the offense with precision, recording a remarkable 35 assists while adding one kill herself. Her ability to keep DeSales' blockers off balance allowed her teammates several clean looks, making her the keystone of Hunter's offensive system.

On the defensive side of the net, Erin Dugan contributed a team-high 14 digs, covering the backcourt effectively. Tomaneng showed her versatility by not only leading the offense but also anchoring the defense with seven digs. Additionally, Hunter's blockers, including Tomaneng and Williams, provided solid net play to slow down DeSales' attack. The team was active on their defensive rotations and read DeSales' offense well, which helped Hunter keep each set close.

Despite Hunter's efforts to respond and counter DeSales' runs, the match saw frequent lead changes, especially in the second and third sets. Hunter's clutch plays—such as timely kills by McIntyre, who scored seven, and Williams with eight—kept them in contention. Yet, it was DeSales' ability to execute in pivotal rallies that ultimately tipped the scales.

Match 2: Montclair 3, Hunter 1
In the second match of the day, the Hawks faced Montclair State University, dropping a competitive three-set match with set scores of 23-25, 17-25, and 23-25. Each set saw Hunter within reach of victory, only for Montclair State's steady offense and defense to ultimately prevail.

Leading the attack,  McIntyre was a force at the net with 13 kills on a powerful .391 hitting percentage, using her athleticism to find gaps in Montclair's defense. McIntyre's efficiency was supported by Williams, who added another 13 kills. Mattison contributed seven kills on just 11 swings, notching an impressive .455 hitting percentage.

Once again, setter Tomaneng displayed her skill as the team's primary facilitator, amassing 35 assists. She distributed the ball well across all rotations, keeping Montclair's defense on its heels. Tomaneng also contributed defensively, leading with 10 digs, proving her ability to support both front and backcourt play.

Hunter's defensive backbone was evident throughout the match. McIntyre led with 11 digs, showcasing her all-around abilities, while Dugan's eight digs kept Hunter's backline steady. Blocking was another key element of Hunter's game, as players like McIntyre and Moummad took turns disrupting Montclair's attack. The match featured numerous ties and lead changes, especially in the first and third sets, where Hunter stayed within striking distance but couldn't find the finishing push.

 While the Hawks were unable to secure a set, the team's balanced approach on offense and dedication on defense kept the match competitive. McIntyre's and Williams' combined 26 kills and Tomaneng's solid 35 assists illustrated Hunter's ability to put up a tough fight against a strong opponent as they look to their next match at Medgar Eves on Oct. 28. First serve is slated for 7:00 p.m.