After nearly 11 days off, Oberlin volleyball finally kicked off its conference opener on Wednesday against the Allegheny Gators in the eagerly anticipated first home game of the 2007 season. Acknowledging this first opportunity to see the 2007 Yeowomen in action, Obies — students and staff alike — flooded Philips Gymnasium to support the team. Over 200 Oberlin spectators made it to the game, including the football, basketball and swim teams.

With such an electrifying atmosphere, it was clear that the Yeowomen were out to grab the victory. Right from the onset of the game, the competition was intense. Both teams had come out of the locker room on fire, and the speed of the game was incredible.

The visitors took the early initiative in the game, jumping out to a 20-13 first period lead off, with impressive plays by senior Annie Schulthies. Oberlin launched its characteristic comeback, scoring five straight points with sophomore Rita Kaplon serving.

Even after Allegheny pulled one back, the Gators could barely respond to the heat from the Oberlin team as the lead was cut down to two points at 28-26. Allegheny, however, managed to push ahead at the end to win the first period 30-26.

In the second quarter, things picked up right where they had left off with both teams starting out strong. Senior co-captain Deysi Villarreal led the Yeowomen, scoring two points off very emphatic kills to get things going.

Prompted by the Oberlin threat, Gators senior Jenna Hackett matched Villarreal, responding with a couple kills of her own. The next few minutes saw a very close game, culminating in a 13-13 tie. After that, Allegheny stepped up its game and edged ahead, opening up a 24-18 lead.

Determination from junior Amanda Van Allen and sophomore co-captain Tammela Platt catalyzed a turn around as Oberlin responded with a strong push, scoring many successive points and reducing the lead to two at 27-29. As in the first period, the Gators were able to edge ahead (30-27) to the disappointment of the Oberlin supporters.

The third period saw Allegheny dominate as the Yeowomen lost sight of the victory, scoring only 19 points. The 30-19 third period win saw the Gators claim the game 3-0 to extend their season record to 5-2. With this loss, Oberlin dropped to 1-4 for the season and 0-1 in conference action.