Rockets take down Trojans, punch ticket to sectional final -

The Rochester Rockets took on the Maroa-Forsyth Trojans in a battle of ILSportsWire coverage teams Tuesday night, with a trip to the sectional championship on the line.

Maroa-Forsyth came out swinging behind Hannah Gruenewald, who secured several early kills as the Trojans went toe-to-toe with Rochester, tying the opening set at 12.

However, the Rockets found their rhythm and began to take control. Big plays from Cami Berberet and a strong night at the net from Peyton Zeidler helped Rochester create some separation. Despite a few controversial officiating calls that resulted in two points shifting in Rochester’s favor, the Rockets closed out the first set 25-18.

In the second set, Rochester carried that momentum forward. Katie Riedle made her presence felt from the service line, putting together a run of four consecutive aces, while Liv Kratochvil was on fire at the net, delivering kill after kill.

Maroa-Forsyth refused to go away, battling back to pull within 22-20. But Rochester stayed composed down the stretch and finished the job, taking the second set 25-21 to complete the sweep.

With the victory, the Rockets are headed to the Sectional Championship, where they will face Williamsville on Thursday night at 6 p.m. with a trip to the super-sectional on the line.

Rochester statistical leaders

Kills

Liv Kratochvil: 10
Peyton Zeidler: 10
Cami Berberet: 5

Blocks

Peyton Zeidler: 2

Digs

Sam Kerley: 12
Katie Riedle: 7

Assists

Cami Tinder: 24

Aces

Katie Riedle: 3

Rochester is one win away from a sectional championship. Thursday night, the Rockets will look to keep their postseason run alive against Williamsville.