(3) Bay vs. (2) Marlington
What: Division II regional semifinal
When: 7 p.m., Nov. 3
Where: Stow-Munroe Falls
Records: Bay 22-3, Marlington 22-3
Bay’s path: def. Coventry, 3-1, Tallmadge, 3-1 and Akron Hoban, 3-2
Marlington’s path: def. Kenston, 3-0, Edgewood, 3-0 and Girard, 3-0
On deck: Winner advances to play NDCL or Holy Name on Nov. 5.
Outlook: The last time Bay went to regional competition, the Rockets advanced to the elite eight. So the question is if they can repeat history and advance. The Dukes are led by sophomore hitter Layne Graffice (4.5 kills per set). They mainly use four hitters: Graffice, Natalie Maiorana (2.8), Emily Gainer (1.9) and Chelsea Evanich (1.8). Marlington is young with sophomore libero Jacsyn Hilliard (5.2 digs per set) holding the back row and sophomore setter Jannelle Swisher (8.8 assists per set) setting the passes. Bay has won 14 consecutive matches in a row, with its most recent win being a five-set comeback against Akron Hoban. The longer the match goes, the more it plays into their favor. The Rockets are not a team Marlington wants to take the distance. The Dukes have not played a match that lasted more than three sets all season. If Bay can match up well at the net with their front row, the Rockets should have a solid shot to make it to a regional final.
Perez’s pick: Bay
