NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The three-time defending MAAC volleyball champion Purple Eagles opened their home slate with a 3-1 (25-20, 25-20, 20-25, 25-18) victory against the Rider Broncs On Saturday.

Niagara (5-7, 2-1 MAAC) had a balance offense attack and was stellar on defense in its first home match of the season. 

Five Purple Eagles had at least eight kills, with both by Ellen Senf and Amanda Wilken registering double-digit kills. Michelle James, who is NU’s career leader in assists, had eight kills for her most since a career-high 10 kills on Nov. 9, 2008.  James’ 36 assists were a part of a team-high 47 assists this season. 

NU recorded nine blocks, including 14 block assists, which are second most this season.

“We were happy to be at home after being on the road for so long,” head coach Dottie Porch, who made her home coaching debut. “Our excitement carried us through the first set. Rider gave us a challenge in the second. Fortunately, Ellen Senf and Michelle James were able to pick us up and lead us to a win.”

The Purple Eagles won the first two sets by scores of 25-20, but Rider (6-5, 0-2 MAAC) took the second set, 25-20. In the fourth set, Niagara held an 18-17 when the Purple Eagles seized momentum. A kill by Amanda Sedore gave NU the serve and the Purple Eagles had strong serves by Logan Rae and then Allison Reis as NU ended the match on a 7-1 run.

Niagara will host Loyola (8-5, 1-1 MAAC) on Sunday at 2 p.m. The match will be broadcast by LCTV.