Erie, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Volleyball team hosted their first NEC home game on Wednesday night where they dropped a 3-0 decision to Saint Francis (25-21, 25-19, 25-23) at the Mercyhurst Athletic Center. The loss brings the Lakers to 2-13 overall and 1-4 in NEC play, while Saint Francis improves to 8-9 overall and 4-1 in conference action. 

How It Happened: 

In the first set, the Lakers stayed competitive, trading points with the Red Flash through multiple lead changes. Paige Miller and Andrea Zaric were key contributors, but Saint Francis pulled away late to take the set 25-21. The Lakers hit .167 in the first frame. 

The second set saw Saint Francis tighten their grip on the match, hitting an impressive .545 as they kept Mercyhurst off balance. Despite kills from Trinity Tatupu and Jessica Wilson, the Lakers struggled to keep pace, losing the set 25-19. 

Mercyhurst fought hard in the third set, with Paige Miller and Brice Hansen adding crucial kills. The Lakers had opportunities to extend the match, but Saint Francis capitalized on key points to secure a narrow 25-23 win, completing the sweep. 

Notable Performances: 

• Paige Miller led the Lakers with 8 kills, hitting .071, and added 9 digs. 

• Trinity Tatupu contributed 7 kills and hit .313. 

• Andrea Zaric recorded 5 kills and 2 block assists. 

• Kaitlin Murphy chipped in with 2 kills and 2 block assists. 

Up Next: 

The Lakers will look to bounce back tomorrow afternoon when they host Saint Francis once again.  The match is set for 1 PM.