Harvard men’s volleyball (6-9, 4-2 EIVA) put up a strong fight but ultimately fell 3-1 to No. 6 BYU (14-6, 2-2 MPSP) on Monday evening in Provo, Utah.
Match Recap
The Crimson started strong in the opening set, determined to split the series after Saturday’s loss. Harvard built an early 5-3 lead, but BYU kept the score close. The teams remained tied 10 times in the first 22 points before the Cougars pulled ahead with a 4-0 run. Harvard responded with five straight points of its own to take a 20-17 lead. The Crimson held off BYU down the stretch to secure a 25-21 set win.
The Cougars bounced back in dominant fashion, overwhelming Harvard 25-14 in the second set. BYU stormed to a 9-2 lead and never looked back, tying the match at one set apiece.
In the third set, Harvard regained momentum and led 8-7 early. The Crimson stayed ahead at 17-16, but BYU fought back to tie the score at 20-20. The Cougars closed out the set with a decisive 5-0 run, winning 25-20 and taking a 2-1 match lead.
Harvard battled fiercely in the fourth set, trying to force a fifth. BYU built an 11-8 lead, but the Crimson answered with a 4-0 run to tie the score at 14-14. The teams traded points, remaining tied five more times before the Cougars pulled away late. BYU won five of the last six points to take the set 25-21 and claim the match victory.
Harvard Highlights
- Zach Berty led the Crimson with 12 kills, hitting .303, and contributed seven digs.
- Owen Fanning recorded 10 kills.
- Brian Thomas added five kills and led the team with four total blocks.
- Miha Okorn matched his career-high with eight digs.
Next Up
Harvard will return to EIVA play after more than a week off, hosting George Mason on Friday, March 28, at 7:00 p.m. ET at the Malkin Athletic Center.
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