The Piedmont volleyball team dropped a pair of matches in tournament play on Friday, with both matches determined by a 3-0 decision. The Lions lost to Virginia Wesleyan and then Bridgewater despite nearly claiming a set against the Eagles.
Match 1: Virginia Wesleyan 3, Piedmont 0
The Lions were up against an undefeated Marlins team that made quick work in each of the three sets. Virginia Wesleyan did not allow Piedmont more than 14 points in a set claiming the match 25-14, 25-10, and 25-11.
Piedmont had six aces against the Marlins, with freshman Kaylee Ashcraft totaling five. Vanessa Manzo had all 12 assists for Piedmont.
Match 2: Bridgewater 3, Piedmont 0
It was a tight battle with the Eagles in the second match of the day as the Lions nearly took the first set. It took extra points, but it was Bridgewater who took the edge to claim the opening set 27-25.
In the second set, Bridgewater used that momentum to earn a 25-13 win and claimed the match with a 25-21 win.
Piedmont fell behind 16-11 in the opening set but charged ahead late to lead 23-21. The Lions were outscored 6-2 in the final points to drop the set 27-25.
The Lions threatened in the third set leading 17-16, but were unable to withstand the Eagles’ comeback.
Ashcraft led Piedmont with seven kills, while Vanessa Manzo had 21 assists.
Up next, Piedmont will conclude the Raleigh Invitational taking on Central College and Guilford College.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
Kaylee Ashcraft posted five aces against the Marlins.
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE:
Virginia Wesleyan posted 43 kills to Piedmont’s 14 in the opening match of the day.
