Xavier Sanchez
correspondent
Marist extended its winning streak to nine games with a 25-16, 25-17 win over East Suburban Catholic Conference rival Nazareth on May 2.
This winning streak is the Red Hawks' second longest winning streak after their 12-game winning streak to start the season. Eight of the nine matches in his current winning streak have come in two sets. The only exception was a three-set win on April 27 against two-time defending state champion Glenbard West.
Against the Roadrunners, Marist (28-2, 6-0 ESCC) was led by seniors. Middle blocker Brendan Rushton led all players with six kills to go with two blocks, Jack Meador had five kills, defensive specialist JJ McNicholas had three kills and 10 digs, and outside hitter Luke Brannigan had three. He recorded a kill and three aces. Senior setter Ethan Cuziera had a game-high 20 assists for the RedHawks.
Nazareth (11-12, 0-6 ESCC) was led by senior captain and setter Hagan Perfect, who had 13 assists, seven digs, two aces and one block.
Roadrunners senior outside hitter David Blanke had five kills, three digs and 14 receptions, Tommy Chopp had a team-high six kills and 12 receptions, and junior libero Hunter Creaney had nine digs and 14 receptions. Recorded 9 receptions.