Brunswick, Ga.  In one of the most thrilling volleyball matches ever played in Howard Coffin Gym, the College of Coastal Georgia Mariners won a five set match over the Warner Royals in the Quarterfinals of The Sun Conference Volleyball Tournament.  

The Mariners fell behind the Royals 0 - 2 by scores of 24 - 26 and 22 - 25.  But the loyal Mariner fans watched and cheered as their team fought, scratched and gave tremendous effort to fight off the determined and well-prepared visitors.   After the intermission, the Mariners bounced back in set #3 winning 25 -18.  They followed in the fourth set with a convincing 25 - 13 victory.  But the Royals would not concede the match easily.  

The Royals jumped out to an early 5 - 8 lead in set #5 and also scored the first point after the teams changed sides, jumping to a 5 - 9 lead.  The Royals appeared as if they might be headed for the win.  But the Mariners responded with inspired play winning the next 8 points to lead 13 - 9; appearing to turn the tables.  But the Royals also responded with a four point run to tie the deciding set at 13. 

The Royals fought off Mariner match points at 14 - 13 and 15 - 14, before the Mariners closed the match on the night's final kill by Junior Kyra White.  

White led the Mariners attack hitting .475 for the match followed by Alexis Downey's .333.  The Royals were led on offense by Keana Smalls at .375.

The Mariners will next face TSC #1 seeded St. Thomas Bobcats in the semi-final match at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 10 at St. Thomas University.  Visit www.coastalgeorgiasports.com for updates and tournament information.