Merrimack College men’s volleyball lost a close match against fourth-seeded Tusculum on Apr. 16, ending with a score of 3-2 in the IVA quarterfinal.
The outcome means Merrimack’s pursuit of the Independent Volleyball Association trophy was cut short. However, the team will have another opportunity to compete when they face sixth-seeded UPR Rio Piedras on Friday at 11 a.m.
Dallas Birkenbeuel led Merrimack with 18 kills, including eight in the first set, and contributed three block assists. Both Blake Taschner and Max Tkachev recorded double-doubles during the match; Taschner finished with 12 kills and 14 digs while Tkachev added 10 kills and 10 digs. Nick Tidik came close to double digits as well, tallying nine kills and leading the Warriors with four blocks.
Reece Lindstrom provided significant support for his teammates by delivering 43 assists, pushing his season total above 600. Libero Kyle Standage topped all players in digs for Merrimack with a total of 17.
Although this loss ends their run for the championship title this season, Merrimack will continue tournament play later this week.
