Volleyball: Win keeps postseason hopes alive

File Photo: Brisa Cortez had eight kills in the win over LA Harbor
File Photo: Brisa Cortez had eight kills in the win over LA Harbor

After a three-set sweep of host Los Angeles Harbor College on Tuesday, the Cerritos College volleyball team still has hopes of earning a post-season playoff bid. The Falcons (11-7, 6-7), who currently sit in sixth place in the tough South Coast Conference, handed the Seahawks a 25-15, 25-21, 25-18 decision for their second win in a row after suffering through a four-match losing skid. With three matches remaining, the Falcons have a chance to potentially finish in a three-way tie for fourth place in the conference. First up is 2fifth place East Los Angeles College (20-8, 8-6), who defeated Cerritos in four sets in their first meeting. Last year, 20 teams made the playoffs, with Cerritos currently 21st in the RPI standings. Two of the three final opponents are ahead of the Falcons in the RPI.

In the match against the Seahawks, two of the Cerritos starters were held out, but the team still recorded a three-set sweep and hit a strong .382. The team's top hitter, Jayda Harris-Amete (La Mirada HS) was her usual spectacular self and turned in her second straight 18-kill match. She also added eight digs and two service aces. The Falcons also received eight kills from freshman Brisa Cortez (Schurr HS), while sophomore Kira Magdaleno (Artesia HS) made a rare start and finished with six kills in 16 attempts.

Freshman setter Leeya Rubio (Schurr HS) directed the offense to the tune of 40 assists, while she also posted four kills and nine digs. Sophomores Erykah Scott (Bellflower HS) and Kaydence Portillo (Bell Gardens HS) combined for nine kills, with sophomore Madison Borja (La Mirada HS) assuming the role of libero and posted a team-high 11 digs from the back row.