SCHENECTADY, NY
Union College defeated Rivier College, 3-1 in the final match of the first day of the 2008 NCAA Division III Union Regionals at the Viniar Athletic Center Thursday night. The Dutchwomen (36-5) came back to win, 18-25, 25-12, 25-12 and 25-13. Rivier, in the tournament for a third time and second straight, finishes the 2008 season with a 25-11 record.

The Raiders were led by senior setter Laura Ciummo (Burrillville, RI), who dished out 27 assists, and outside hitter Nicole Hersey (Milton, NH), who had nine kills. Freshman outside hitter/defensive specialist Lauren Saccoccio (Warwick, RI) added seven digs and 5 kills for Rivier.  Senior Colleen Van Cura (Niantic, CT) tallied a team high 16 digs for the Raiders.

The Raiders won the opening game, taking the lead after a 4-4 tie and never relinquishing the lead. Union trailed 17-13 but never got closer and lost by seven. Union jumped out to a 10-5 lead in game two and after the Raiders pulled to within three, trailing 14-11, the Dutchwomen finished the game with an 11-1 run.

Sets three and four featured much of the same as Union used their big block to close the match.
 
(7) Rivier College        1        25  12  12  13
(2) Union College        3        18  25  25  25 .