The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford volleyball team opened the Lycoming College Tournament with a split, defeating Pennsylvania College of Technology in straight sets, before falling to York College, 3-2, in the nightcap.

"You know, these five set losses are just heartbreaking," said Pitt-Bradford volleyball coach Tom Roof. "We didn't play bad at all, but it was just one of those things where you play well and lose. It's unfortunate, but I'm happy with the way we competed against a very good York College team."

Prior to the 3-2 heartbreaker to York, the Panthers dominated Penn College, winning in straight sets.

"We came out on fire," Roof said. "Our offense was really hitting well and our defense was just terrific, in both games. We kept so many balls alive, which allowed our offense to do what they do best."

Alma Turpin led Pitt-Bradford in the opener with eight kills and five digs. Kirsten Platz added seven kills, Jenessa Ceprish chipped in with five kills and Christina Rauh finished with 17 assists. Emily Reitz was terrific in the back row, racking up 10 digs while Erin Fagan added nine digs in the victory.

Rauh and Mandy Finch led the Panthers in the loss to York. Rauh finished with 29 assists and 21 digs, while Finch added nine kills and eight digs. Turpin followed with eight kills and Alexis Dhayer collected 13 digs.

"I think we're playing really well right now," Roof said. "I just hope the girls come ready to play tomorrow. We play two very tough teams and it should be a great opportunity for us."

The Panthers are back in action Saturday morning at 11:30 against Elizabethtown, and will then close out the tournament against Lycoming at 1:30 p.m.