Freshman Raelean Rush hit .254 for the weekend.

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – The Niagara University volleyball team (2-12) looked to build on its win over Delaware State, but instead dropped two matches Saturday afternoon in the Hawk Challenge at Maryland-Eastern Shore in Princess Anne, Md.

The Purple Eagles lost to Long Island University (13-4) in the first match, 30-25, 30-19 and 30-19. Freshman Raelean Rush (Amherst, N.Y./Sweet Home) had a team-high 13 kills and junior Micole Daluisio (Lancaster, N.Y./Lancaster) added 16 digs.

UNC Asheville beat Niagara in the second match, 30-16, 30-27 and 30-17. Junior Michelle LeSouder had 16 kills and hit .289 for the match. Rush added 12 digs and Daluisio 11.

The Purple Eagles return to action Oct. 13 when they host Marshall at 7 p.m. in the Gallagher Center. Admission is free.