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Northeastern volleyball tops Suburban in thriller


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York Suburban pushed four-time defending state and District 3 champion Northeastern to the limit Tuesday, but the Bobcats managed to rally after dropping the first and fourth games to earn a 3-2 victory.

Northeastern held on, 18-25, 25-21, 25-23, 23-25, 15-10, to knock off the Trojans at York Suburban High School.

“It’s not a surprise that they wanted us,” Northeastern coach Matt Wilson said, “and I don’t think it’s a surprise how well they played.

“You’ve got to tip your cap to your opponent, and I think tonight they put us on our heels. They had us scrambling and stressed – me included. At the end of the day I’m thrilled with the fact our guys were able to grow up tonight.”

York Suburban and Northeastern met in the PIAA Class 2A state semifinals last season, with the Bobcats earning a sweep. But this is a very different Northeastern squad this season.

After replacing almost its entire core from last year’s state title team, Northeastern worked in some of its younger players, including freshman, during the early-season win.

Already ranked No. 1 in the state, Northeastern used one of its new players, Cole Brillhart, to push the action. The former Red Lion player led the Bobcats with 20 kills and six blocks. Dakoda Hoffman added 10 blocks.

Yet, York Suburban never looked in awe of Northeastern.

York Suburban's Jack Schultz had eight kills and five blocks. Zach Weinstein added seven kills and 15 assists. David Kinfe had four blocks.

“We’re used to playing them, it’s our league,” co-head coach Jamie Evans.  “We could see them potentially four times.”

The Trojans knocked off Northeastern in Game 1, and York Suburban could have been headed toward potentially taking a commanding lead in the match in Game 3. Game 3 featured seven ties and three lead changes early on, but Northeastern took the lead for good when it snapped a 12-12 tie – holding on for a 25-23 win.

York Suburban returned the favor in Game 4, but Northeastern controlled the action in Game 5.

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Video: Bobcats fans a Northeastern family
Northeastern boys' volleyball is attempting to win its fourth consecutive state championship when it plays Saturday in the PIAA title game at Rec Hall in State College. The Bobcats will once again be supported by a large group of faithful followers.
Jim Seip, GameTimePA.com