Women's Volleyball Falls in Season Opener to Anchormen

FITCHBURG, MA: Fitchburg State women's volleyball fell to Rhode Island College (RIC) this afternoon in a non-conference matchup.

THE BASICS:

- Date: 8/31/24

- Score: RIC 3, Fitchburg 1, Set scores: 25-21, 22-25, 19-25, 24-26.

- Records: RIC (1-0), Fitchburg (0-1)

HOW IT HAPPENED:

-  The Falcons started every set with a lead, but the resilience of the Anchormen helped them rally back and take three straight sets after falling behind 1-0. RIC was paced by Sarina Marines, who finished with a match-high 22 kills. Marines had some help from her setter, Yuleisy Alvelo, who was putting the ball in the perfect spot. She racked up 37 assists and 18 digs on the afternoon. Defensively, the libero Carolyn Bailey topped all in the back row with 32 digs.  

- The Falcons offense saw junior Stephanie Sardella (Billerica, MA) top the team with 12 kills. Sardella also made her presence known on the defensive side with 19 digs and a block assist. Fitchburg's offense ran through sophomore setter Mia Vestal (Wilmington, MA), who had 19 assists. The Falcons defense was held down by senior Samantha Mirra (Burlington, MA) and libero Jessica Greco (Southington, CT). Both tallied 22 digs in the contest.  

INSIDE THE NUMBERS:

-  Kills: RIC 51, Fitchburg 37

-  Assists: RIC 48, Fitchburg 33

-  Digs: RIC 112, Fitchburg 101

UP NEXT:

- Fitchburg State women's volleyball will be back in action next Tuesday, September 3^rd when they travel to Keene State for a 7:00 PM match.

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