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Moni Nikolov continues with aces for Long Beach's 11th victory, Kъndev also in play

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VolleyWeek

February 15, 2025 at 11:45

Moni Nikolov continues with aces for Long Beach's 11th victory, Kъndev also in play

Long Beach State continued their impressive undefeated streak from the start of the season (11-0) with a 3-0 (25-15, 25-11, 25-22) victory over Vanguard. The team hit 46.2% and made 12 blocks in a dominant victory over the Lions. Sebastiano Sani led the hosts' offense with 14 points (1 ace, 3 blocks).Moni Nikolov continued to score direct points from serve, finishing with 12 points (4 aces, 1 block), as well as 25 assists.

Only the third set was a battle, as the 'Beach' trailed for the first time in the match. A double block by Isaiah Pruitt and Daniil Hershtinovich tied the score at 6-6. The set remained competitive as Vanguard regained the lead at 11-9. Alex Kandev entered the match and immediately scored two attacks to bring the score to a new tie at 12-12. Both teams exchanged aces before Long Beach State regained the lead. Moni Nikolov served an ace after the timeout to give the 'Beach' a two-point lead at 16-14. Vanguard went on a 3-0 run to bring the score to a one-point difference at 22-21. Long Beach State scored two consecutive points to regain control and closed the match 25-22 with an attack by Nikolov.
Alexander Kandev finished with 5 points, and Moni continues to lead the ranking in aces scored - 40 aces or 1.08 points from serve per set.

Long Beach State returns to action on Friday, February 21, when they host Grand Canyon at Walter Pyramid.