Lasers continue unbeaten in conference
BUILT TO KILL
The IVC men’s volleyball team knew coming into last week that it would be a distinguishing time in its season. It then extinguished Orange Coast, Golden West and any remaining doubts in sweeping fashion.
The 30-23, 30-22, 30-30 victory at Golden West on Wednesday and 30-23, 30-19, 30-22 victory over OCC on Friday kept the Lasers (8-1, 3-0) undefeated in Pacific Coast Conference play. IVC’s home victory over tied-for first conference rival OCC to take full possession atop the division made things that much sweeter.
The defending state champions were led by Peter Johnson, who used his match-high 11 kills, five digs and two aces Friday as an encore to his 13 kill night against Golden West, in which he hit .409. Nick Martus finished with 10 kills and Reese Haine had eight kills, seven digs and three blocks.
Sophomore Libero Kaleo Baxter had six digs and setter Phil Younglove had 35 assists and six digs.
When the Lasers and Pirates met last season, they split the series, both which extended to five games.
IVC has now won each of its last two matches against OCC. The Lasers defeated the Pirates in five games on April 6, 2007. OCC, in turn, defeated the Lasers in five games earlier in that season during the span of a 14-match win streak.
The two teams tied for the conference championship last season, but did not face each other in the state playoffs.
They are scheduled to meet again April 2 in Pirates Gymnasium at 6 p.m.
With Friday’s win, IVC has won its last eight consecutive conference matches dating back to March 30, 2007.
IVC will host San Diego City College, Wednesday, to continue conference play. The match starts at 6 p.m.
SUPERFANS RETURN