Phoenixville, PA - Returning to Pennsylvania, the Yeshiva Men's Volleyball team took on the University of Valley Forge Patriots. Despite a determined effort, the Maccabees fell short, dropping the match 3-0 on Monday, Feb. 3rd. 

Offensively, the Maccabees saw strong attacking performances from Jonathan Werta and Massimo Bertini. Werta contributed 3 kills and an ace, while Bertini made an impressive collegiate debut, adding 3 kills of his own. 

Yoni Rubin and Amiti Trabelsi made a stellar defensive impact for the Macs. Rubin recorded 4 digs, while Trabelsi dominated at the net with 2 key blocks on the night.  

With the loss, the Macs are now 0-3. 

HOW IT HAPPENED  

• Set one started with a bang as Amiti Trabelsi delivered a service ace, but the Patriots quickly responded with four aces of their own, jumping out to an early 5-1 lead. Kills from Werta, Peter Osen, and Bertini helped the Macs regain some momentum, but the Patriots remained relentless, sealing the set with a 25-14 victory. 

• Set two began in a similar fashion, with Yeshiva getting the opening point. The Macs kept pace with the Patriots, capitalizing on their errors to stay within one at 5-6. However, the Patriots soon found their rhythm, going on a scoring run to extend their lead by 10. The Macs refused to back down, mounting a scoring run of their own, highlighted by an ace from Werta and a kill from Osen. They narrowed the Patriots' lead to 5, but despite their efforts, the Macs couldn't close the gap, falling 25-17 in the set. 

• Yeshiva struggled to keep pace as the third set began, falling behind early with a 9-0 deficit. Kills from Bertini and Werta helped the Macs get on the board, but the Patriots continued their aggressive play, ultimately winning the set, 25-14.  

MAC LEADERS 

• Kills: Werta (3), Bertini (3), Osen (2) 
• Aces: Werta (1), Trabelsi (1), Solomon (1) 
• Blocks: Trabelsi (2) 
• Assists: Trabelsi (5), Rubin (1), Solomon (1) 
• Digs: Rubin (4), Bertini (3), Osen (2) 

  
UP NEXT 
The Maccabees will remain in New York City for their next game as they take on another non-conference opponent in John Jay College on February 11th at 7:00 PM.