Utica, N.Y. - The SUNY Poly men's volleyball team defeated the SUNY Potsdam Bears in a thrilling five set battle. Behind spectacular performances from Jason Aubrey, James Mion, Jordan Weir and Peter Gottler, the Wildcats rallied back from being down 2 sets to none to win the match 3-2. The win keeps the Wildcats season alive, as the team now prepares for a matchup with the #1 ranked Nichols College. 

HOW IT HAPPENED: 

The first set was quick and tightly contested, with the largest lead for either side being five points. Impressive plays from Joshua Slater and James Mion helped keep the Wildcats on pace with the Bears, but it was not enough. SUNY Potsdam would string together some important points toward the end of the set, eventually closing it out on top by a score of 25-21. 

The Bears entered the second set with some momentum, building a lead as big as 11 at one point. The Wildcats could not find a rhythm, while the Bears made precise attacks and well-timed blocks. Despite SUNY Poly showing moments of toughness, the Bears would dictate most of the play, and would come away with a 25-15 set victory. 

The third set was a seesaw battle, as both teams traded points with precise attacks and well-executed serves. Led by James Mion and Joshua Slater, the Wildcats remained composed despite being down 2-0 in sets. Behind key contributions from Peter Gottler and Jordan Weir, SUNY Poly surged to an entertaining 25-21 set win. 

A powerful kill from Jason Aubrey set the tone for the fourth set, as both teams were showcasing their offensive skills, as well as their defensive abilities. Thanks to some accurate sets from Joshua Slater, the Wildcats' efficient playmaking efforts allowed them to maintain a lead for the majority of the set, leading to another 25-21 set victory. 

On the heels of two energizing set victories, the Wildcats would come out firing in the fifth and final set. SUNY Poly built an early lead and never looked back, extending their lead to as much as seven halfway through the set. Crucial service aces from James Mion and Peter Gottler, coupled with solid defense helped the Wildcats cruise to a 15-7 set victory, and a 3-2 match victory. 

NOTABLE PERFORMANCES: 

• James Mion had 10 kills on 20 attacks as well as 5 digs and a block. 
• Peter Gottler registered 5 service aces as well as 17 kills. 
• Joshua Slater had 47 assists.
• Thomas McNulty tallied 22 digs. 

UP NEXT: 

The Wildcats hit the road for a round two matchup with the Nichols College Bison. That game is scheduled for April 11th at 7:00 P.M.