Atlanta Vibe sweeps the San Diego Mojo

Yossiana Pressley, an outside hitter for the Vibe, swings over the Mojo’s Hannah Tapp and Temi Thomas-Ailara. (Courtesy of Soleil Dam)

In three sets, the Atlanta Vibe beat the San Diego Mojo on April 7. Atlanta had won all of their previous matchups going into Wednesday’s game. However, San Diego had a newfound confidence coming off winning three out of their last four games.

“I think [we need to] just build upon the stuff that we have used to win,” said Mojo Head Coach Tayyiba Haneef-Park, after their game on April 7. “Blocking, defense, and playing strong from the service line is going to help us match up a little better with Atlanta this time.”

San Diego scored the game’s first point on a kill by Kendra Dahlke, an outside hitter. They held a lead throughout the first set, due to numerous service errors by Atlanta. The Vibe were able to pull through in during the final stretch and won the set 25-17.

Atlanta’s winning ways continued into the second set. Their ability to block on the right side and scrambling ultimately led them to a victory. Despite the Vibe’s dominance, the Mojo also had many scrappy plays of their own.

“We definitely proved it tonight with those long rallies that we’re able to hang,” said August Raskie, a setter for San Diego. “I just think we can do a better job of still terminating off of the ones we do.”

Both team’s hustle mentality carried on to the third set, and so did Atlanta’s success. With the help of multiple sustained serving runs, the Vibe went on to win the third set 25-13.

(Courtesy of Soleil Dam)

Atlanta remains at the top of the Pro Volleyball Federation standings, while the Mojo sit at fifth place. As they go into the final month of the season, both teams are looking to make a push to secure spots in the playoffs.

“I think you keep the momentum by looking at the rankings,” Haneef-Park said. “We moved from bottom to fifth and we’re half a game away from fourth place and being in the playoffs.”

San Diego’s next game is on April 12 and will be a rematch with the Columbus Fury. The matchup will be broadcast on CBS Sports. Atlanta’s next game will be at home against the Omaha Supernovas on April 13.

Edited by: Breanna Ebisch