The Ma’ayanot Rapids hosted the North Shore Brandon Lions on February 7, in Teaneck. The MYHSAL Western Division champion Rapids beat their visitors from Long Island in straight sets, 21-12, 21-17, 21-10.

North Shore (4-6 regular season) was never able to gain the momentum the home team had at the outset of play. The Rapids (9-1 regular season) lost the lead only once, in the second set, due to a Lions scoring run. But Ma’ayanot regained its focus and never looked back.

The Rapids’ win was part of a trend in this season’s playoffs. All Western teams (Frisch, Kushner and Ramaz) beat their Eastern opponents (Flatbush, SSLI and Central, respectively). The Kushner (6-4 regular season) win was especially surprising, given SSLI’s perfect (10-0) regular season record.

Second round playoffs will see Kushner travel to Frisch. Ramaz will come to Teaneck to face Ma’ayanot. The winners of those matches will play the championship game at a third party location.

By Barry Schechter

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