The Messiah Men’s Volleyball team faced its first game of the season against MACVC West Division rival, Shippensburg, Wednesday night in Brubaker Auditorium. The Falcons came out a little sluggish against a tough opponent. The first game was hard fought by both teams, with several ties and lead changes. Messiah was able to pull ahead 22-17, but failed to close out the game convincingly after many unforced errors and tough plays from the Raiders. The first game finished 25-23, favoring the home team. The Falcons immediatley kicked it into gear in game 2 pulling ahead with a substantial lead. At 11-3, Shippensburg started to fight there way back into the game. With Messiah up 20-16, the Raider offense surprised the Falcon defense to tie the game. The Falcons answered back with some offensive weapons of their own scoring a 4-0 run, with game point on serve. A miscue on serve, and strong play from Shippensburg, Messiah pulled out the second game 25-22. The third game proved too much for Shippensburg to handle. Messiah pulled ahead 10-2 after many well earned plays. At 14-6, Messiah was able to make substitutions to relieve some of the Falcons. Fresh legs and the same intensity from the Falcons discouraged the already down Raiders even more. At 20-9, the Falcons looked to have the match set away comfortably. Shippensburg thought otherwise, fighting back again with great plays. Messiah played consistent to outlast Shippensburg, closing the match 25-20.