LEXINGTON, Va. — Rutgers–Newark Scarlet Raiders men's volleyball saw its season end in the Continental Volleyball Conference semifinals with a straight-set loss to Juniata Eagles men's volleyball, 25-20, 25-18, 25-23, on Friday at the Duchossois Athletic & Recreation Center. 

Rutgers–Newark came out aggressive and stayed close early in the opening set, but Juniata used a mid-set run to build separation and take a 1-0 lead. The Scarlet Raiders had trouble finding rhythm from the service line, committing 17 service errors in the match, which helped Juniata maintain momentum. 

The second set followed a similar script, with Rutgers–Newark hanging around before Juniata pulled away late behind efficient offense and strong net play. Juniata finished with 8.5 total blocks and hit .282 as a team, compared to Rutgers–Newark's .146 hitting percentage. 

Rutgers–Newark saved its best push for the third set. After trailing by as many as four points, the Scarlet Raiders rallied and eventually evened the score at 23-23. But Juniata answered in the closing moments, scoring the final two points to seal the sweep and advance to the CVC championship match. 

Michael Suarez led the Scarlet Raiders with 10 kills, while Aleks Kolodziej added nine kills. Duncan Sturt recorded 29 assists, and Kaden Komine posted a team-high nine digs. 

Rutgers–Newark closes the season with a 19-9 record after reaching the conference semifinals. Juniata improved to 28-2 with the win. 

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