As expected by most observers, Penn State defeated Liberty in three sets, by identical 25-16, 25-16, 25-16 scores.  6-4 So. Opp/RS Ariel Scott’s 16 kills (.452 attack %) led all players, followed by 6-2 So. OH Maddie Martin’s 8 kills (with 10 digs), and 6-6 So. MH Katie Slay’s 7 kills. 5-11 Fr. S Micha Hancock (36 assists, 10 digs) directed the team to a .337 attack %.  The Nittany Lions held Liberty to an .075 attack %.  5-6 So. L Ali Longo tied for first on the team with 10 digs, and Slay led with two blocks.

The NCAA Second Round opponent — Delaware — isn’t given much respect by the blogisphere.  And, truth be told, Penn State should win this match handily.  The Nittany Lions are 2-0 all-time against Delaware, with the last meeting having taken place on October 9, 1981 (Penn State won 2-0 (15-6, 15-7)).  Delaware, which won its fourth CAA championship in five years by defeating Virginia Commonwealth, 3-2, on November 20th, advanced to the NCAA 2nd round for the first time since 2007 with a 3-1 victory over American (17-25, 25-22, 25-22, and 25-23).

Match Stats – Liberty vs. Penn State