GRINNELL, Iowa (Duhawks.com) – It was a dominating performance for the Loras College women's volleyball team, who convincingly defeated Grinnell College in straight sets (25-14, 25-14, 25-19) at Darby Gymnasium, on Tuesday Sept. 1.

The Duhawks (1-0) jumped to a quick lead in the first set 10-6, forcing the Pioneers (0-1) to call their first of four timeouts throughout the match. In her first action as a Duhawk, freshman Claire Ritchie helped pace the offense by assisting on eight of the teams 16 kills in the first set. Junior Danni Kennedy got back to her hitting ways to begin the season to the tune of a .571 hitting percentage.

Grinnell didn't back down following a disappointing set, taking an early 4-1 lead over Loras in set two. Using the offensive prowess of Kennedy and junior Therese Schultz, the Duhawks evened the odds and brought the set even at seven. The Pioneers went on to hit -.067 in the second set which along with eight errors led to their 25-14 demise.

Set three once again brought new life to the Pioneers as they rallied back from 22-13 down late in the match to bring the score to 22-19. This momentum was eventually stymied by Ritchie whose late kill brought the Duhawks within two points of their first victory of the season. An error from Grinnell sealed the 25-19 victory for Loras.

Tuesday showcased a well-rounded Loras squad that saw junior Jenna Erickson finish with 16 assists, senior Liz Jendra finish with five kills, and freshman Ali Clark finish with 11 digs and two service aces.