SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – The Rivier women's team fell in four sets in its season opener against non-conference opponent Keene St. on day one of the Joel B. Dearing '79 Classic hosted by Springfield College, Friday evening at Blake Arena.  

With the loss, the Raiders fell to 0–1, while the Owls improved to 1–0.

HOW IT HAPPENED 

• Both squads traded points to begin the first set until back-to-back service aces by junior Sam Driend put Rivier in front 9-6.
• The Raiders extended their lead to five before a series of attack errors put them ahead, 22-12.
• The Owls answered with three straight points, but a Driend's third service ace closed out the first set for Rivier, 25-15
• Keene St. took control in the second set, jumping out to a 14-6 lead.
• The Raiders chipped away, thanks to kills from senior Callie Nanos and sophomore Lydia Brakefield; however, the Owls regained control, going on an eight-point run to take set two, 25-12.
• Keene St. continued to have success offensively, jumping out in front 9-3 to begin the third set.
• Four kills from Nanos and one from sophomore Lily Seibel brought the Raiders within two.
• Both teams continued to trade opportunities throughout the set, but the Owls' early lead helped them stay ahead and take a 2-1 lead.
• Keene St. took a 12-4 lead in the fourth and never looked back, taking the fourth set and the match, 25-15.

BOX SCORE BREAKDOWN

• Nanos led the offense with 11 kills on a .276 hitting percentage.
• Seibel led the team in assists with 22 in the season opener.
• Senior Kaitlyn Miller led the defensive efforts with 12 digs, with classmate Ali Rivera and Seibel close behind with 11 each.

UP NEXT 

The Raiders return to Blake Arena Saturday, Aug. 30, for day two of the Dearing Classic. Their first match is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. against non-conference opponents Westfield St.