MISHAWAKA, Ind. –The Bethel Pilots (13-15, 7-9) were swept by the Lawrence Tech Blue Devils (23-2, 15-0) on Friday evening in the Goodman Gymnasium.
Erik Malek hit a new season high for kills scored in a single game (eight), leading the Bethel offense for kills on senior night.
Kamden DeJournett also locked in a season record for digs recorded in a single game (four).
In the opening set, the Blue Devils showcased an impressive 5-0 lead, concluding with three earned kills.
Jacob Massey responded with a kill, and two block assists alongside hitter Thomas Dunkley (5-3).
An attacking error by Ling Pak Him ended the Blue Devil point-run mid set, as Bethel trailed 11-6.
Santana Roybal-Benson secured Bethel’s final points of the set with a collaborative block with Ben Ritzema and a kill (23-16).
The Pilots finished the first set 25-16.
In the second set, both teams were tied at 3-3 following a service error by Lawrence Tech.
A service error by Erik Malek initiated another Blue Devil run that had Bethel trailing 7-3.
Pablo Tello recorded a service ace mid-set (16-13).
Erik Malek posted the final kill for the Pilots (23-20), but Lawrence Tech won the second set 25-20.
In the final set of the evening, the Pilots clutched a 2-0 lead following a block by Erik Malek and Santana Roybal-Benson.
The Pilots retained their lead for several minutes, and were up 11-8 after a kill by Thomas Dunkley.
The Blue Devils answered with a massive five point-run to take a 13-11 lead after two consecutive Pilot attacking errors.
In the point for point battle, Pablo Tello scored a kill off of Jack Hughes as Lawrence Tech led by one lone point (22-21).
Erik Malek put the final kill on the board for either team to bring the score 23-22.
A service battle ensued in the final minutes of the game, with Bethel recording two service errors and Lawrence Tech posting one.
Bethel surrendered the third set 25-23.
The Bethel Pilots will now set their sights on the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference Tournament. Bethel will play on Tuesday, Apr. 15 for the opening round.