Box Score BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Mercyhurst University (12-18, 10-6 NEC) fell to Long Island University (19-8, 15-1 NEC) in straight sets on Friday at the Steinberg Wellness Center, with scores of 25-16, 25-18, and 25-14. 

The first set commenced with Mercyhurst and LIU exchanging early points, keeping the score tight. The Lakers took advantage of an LIU service error to equalize the score at 1-1. Andrea Zaric contributed with a service ace, which was part of a run that brought Mercyhurst to a 7-6 lead, showcasing effective serving and capitalization on opponent errors.

Despite a close contest, LIU gradually pulled ahead with a series of kills from their front line. The Lakers responded with contributions from Kaitlin Murphy and Roslyn Guerra, closing the gap to 15-15 at one point. However, LIU regained momentum, extending their lead with a sequence of successful attacks, ultimately closing the set 25-16.

The second set began with Mercyhurst taking an early lead through a kill from Mia Mattingly, assisted by Alia Mastromatteo. The Lakers maintained a narrow advantage with contributions from Julia Shepherd and Guerra, each securing kills to keep the score close at 3-1. However, LIU responded by capitalizing on errors and a service ace, pulling ahead to a 5-4 lead.

Midway through the set, LIU extended its lead, using a series of kills and service aces to gain momentum and reach a 12-9 advantage. The Lakers fought back with blocks from Shepherd and Murphy, as well as a service ace from Trinity Tatupu, narrowing the deficit to 19-14. Despite Mercyhurst's push, LIU's consistent play helped secure the set, closing it at 25-18.

Mercyhurst entered the third set aiming to shift the momentum, quickly leveling the score at 1-1 with a kill by Mattingly assisted by Mastromatteo. Mastromatteo continued to contribute with a service ace, briefly giving the Lakers the lead. However, LIU responded with a significant run, capitalizing on a series of attack errors and service aces to extend their advantage.

Despite the LIU surge, the Lakers managed to narrow the gap with key plays from Guerra and Murphy, each recording kills. Mastromatteo's setting continued to facilitate scoring opportunities, aiding a late push that included a service ace and a kill from Zaric. However, LIU maintained their lead and closed the set with a 25-14 victory.

Guerra led the offensive efforts for Mercyhurst, finishing with eight kills on 22 attempts and achieving a hitting percentage of .227. Mastromatteo contributed significantly with 13 assists and added two service aces to her performance. Shepherd recorded five kills and two blocks, accumulating a total of 6.0 points. Jessica Wilson, in a brief appearance, registered a perfect hitting percentage, converting her only attack into a kill.