BRADFORD, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford volleyball team was dominant in the first two sets, leading to a 3-1 victory over Alfred University on Tuesday night in the KOA Arena.
"I think the girls were anxious to play in front of our home crowd for the first time this season," said Pitt-Bradford head coach Tom Roof. "I liked our effort and overall I am very happy with the result tonight."
Kirsten Platz led the Panthers with 15 kills and seven blocks, including six solo blocks. Mandy Finch followed with 11 kills and 15 digs while Christina Rauh added 33 assists and 14 digs.
Alma Turpin finished with seven kills and eight digs, and Brittany Watts added four kills and five digs. Jenessa Ceprish and Emily Reitz rounded out the Panthers dominance with 11 and 10 kills, respectively.
The Panthers were terrific in the first two sets, really setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
"We came out swinging and we really hit the ball well in those first two sets," Roof said. "I think we got a little too comfortable, and that allowed them to pick up that win in the third set. But, I was proud of how we came back with a strong fourth set to capture the victory."
With the victory the Panthers improve to 4-5 on the season, while the Saxons fall to 1-7.
"It's still so early in the season, but I think we're playing very well," Roof said. "We have a lot to work on, and if we continue to work hard we will only get better."
The Panthers return to action Thursday at Houghton at 7 p.m.
*Photo by Erika Helo*