The Raiders men’s volleyball team is now mathematically out of the playoffs, after a loss to Long Beach City College on Friday night. The Raiders entered the game needing to win while also needing help from other teams to qualify for the playoffs.

On sophomore night, the co-captain duo, Jamal Balkhi and Michael Esper led the way for the Raiders. Balkhi and ten digs, while Esper finished the night with ten kills.

“This is an exciting team to watch,” said head coach Aaron Hedland. “They are willing to dive on the floor and do whatever it takes to win. Tonight we came up short”

The Raiders are playing for pride in their final two games as they are officially unable to gain a playoff birth.

“We still have goals each and every night,” said Hedland.

For now, the Raiders can only spoil the playoff hopes of other teams. They look to end the season strong in their final two games. On Wednesday the Raiders will play Santa Barbara who is currently tied for the final playoff spot.