YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO – The Mercyhurst volleyball team wrapped up the three-game Youngstown Invitational Saturday afternoon, falling to Duquesne in straight sets.
 
After going down 5-1 early in the first set, the Lakers fought back, pulling within one at 6-5. The Dukes pulled ahead again, taking a 16-9 lead, but a four-point run from the Lakers with freshman Madison Miner serving put them back within three. 

Mercyhurst (0-3) stayed within three points, trading points with the Dukes, before they secured the first set win, going on a six point run to end the set. 
 
The Lakers seemed to find their footing in the second set, taking an early 11-9 lead. However, the Dukes went on a scoring run to pull ahead 17-13. Junior middle Mia Mattingly stopped the Dukes run with a kill for the Lakers, but it wasn't enough to right the ship as the Dukes took set two, 25-17. 
 
In the third set, the Lakers came out with some more tenacity with a .258 hitting percentage. A kill from senior Andrea Zaric and a service ace from Alyssa Krause gave the Lakers a 6-5 lead. 

The Dukes (3-0) answered quickly, going on a five point run, but the Lakers wouldn't go away quietly. Zaric recorded multiple kills along with Miner and freshman Payton Melin to keep the Lakers within two points for much of the final set. The Dukes completed the sweep, winning the final set 25-21. 

Julia Shepard led the way for Mercyhurst with 10 kills, followed by Zaric with eight. Krause and Alia Mastromatteo combined for 23 assist while Sydeny Forcht added nine digs in the match. 

The Lakers make their home debut next weeked as they host Jacksonville Sept. 5 at noon.