CALIFORNIA, Pa. – The Gannon volleyball team fell to the top seed in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Tournament Tuesday night by a 3-0 score. The Vulcans defeated Gannon by scores of 25-18, 25-16 and 25-20.

California, who is also the top ranked team in the latest NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional rankings, used an offensive attack that produced 41 kills and hit .267 for the match to overpower the Lady Knights.

The two teams traded points in the first set, as several spectacular defensive plays from California (Pa.) led to long rallies. The Vulcans strung together a quick run down the stretch that proved to be the difference.

The Lady Knights couldn't find an offensive rhythm in the second set, falling by a 25-16 score. Gannon held a lead early in the third set, but Cal regrouped to finish off the 3-0 win, advancing to the PSAC semifinals.

Gannon hit just .090 in the match, producing 30 kills. The Lady Knights held a 7-5 advantage in blocks, but the tough California (Pa.) defense kept several points alive for the Vulcans, holding a 62-43 edge in digs.

Most of the Vulcans' offense came from the middle of the net as Chelsea Wilson and Meghan Franz combined for 18 kills with just one error. Brandy Harris added 13 kills on the outside along with 11 digs.

Gannon was led by Lauren Sazama (St. Louis, Mo. / Oakville) who totaled team highs in kills (14) and digs (15). Kara Cullen (Marstons Mills, Mass. / Barnstable) added three kills while Claren Harris (South Milwaukee, Wis. / South Milwaukee) added a solo block and four block assists. Alex DelPiombo (Monroe, Mich. / St. Mary's Catholic Central) dished out 23 assists in the loss.

The Lady Knights now await the selection of the NCAA 64-team Tournament field which will be announced Sunday, November 12. Gannon was ranked fourth in the latest Atlantic Regional rankings, with the top eight teams earning a tournament berth.

For a complete box score from tonight's Gannon-California (Pa.) volleyball match, please click here.