Scoring the last five points of the fourth set to stay alive and even up the Nassau Division II boys’ volleyball championship match gave Calhoun all the momentum against Roslyn.
However, the Colts were unable to complete the comeback and win their second county title in six months. Second-seeded Roslyn prevailed, 16-25, 26-24, 25-19, 24-26, 15-8 before a spirited crowd for both sides at the Pratt Recreation Center on the campus of LIU-Post on Nov. 9.
“It wasn’t the outcome we wanted, but it was a great experience for a young team and hopefully we’ll be back in the finals again next year,” Calhoun coach Ryan Pastuch said. “We proved we can still compete for a county title even after losing two great players from last season.
“We had too many ups and downs and Roslyn played well,” he added. “We came out hot and with a lot of energy. But there were some moments when we went flat.”
Pastuch said he felt the second set was pivotal when the Colts bolted to a 19-13 lead but couldn’t finish for a two-set cushion. Calhoun rolled in the opening set behind a 10-point service run, including two aces, by junior Ryan Pucella. Junior Tommy Bello led the offense.