The Grand Rapids Rise rallied down three points in the third set, and were serving for the set to take a 2-1 lead. But, San Diego used their blockers to stage a comeback that culminated in a huge road win for the Mojo.
The Mojo (10-10) are now in the third playoff spot, while the Rise (10-12) has slipped to the fourth and final slot. Luckily for both San Diego and Grand Rapids, Columbus lost Saturday to Omaha. As a result, the magic number for both these teams, which will meet again in GR on Sunday, is now 2.
Any combination of Fury losses or wins by the Rise of two will clinch a playoff spot for Grand Rapids. The same goes for San Diego.
The Mojo have now two matches in a row, and five of seven. They are riding the big arm of Willow Johnson, who had 18 kills and swung at 40%.
The Mojo held a 17-7 advantage in blocks, which was in many ways the deciding factor in the match that went 22-25, 25-18, 27-25, 25-15 in favor of the visitors.
Claire Chaussee led Grand Rapids with 16 kills, and Marin Grote had a season-high 13 kills and 17 points, including four blocks.
San Diego faces Grand Rapids at Van Andel Arena at 4 PM on Sunday to finish the season series. The Mojo are 3-0 against the Rise this season.
