NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The Niagara volleyball team opened its home schedule with a 3-0 setback to conference-leading Siena, 25-21, 25-13, 25-21, on Saturday.

"It was nice to be home for first time this season," head coach Vilis Ozols said. "I think the girls really benefited from the home court advantage and I anticipate turning it into a victory next time.

After 13 straight away matches, the Purple Eagles (1-13, 0-3 MAAC) fed off of the home crowd in the opening set.  The match was tied at 10-10 before Siena (5-9, 4-0 MAAC) opened up a five-point lead thanks to a 7-2 run. A kill by Amanda Sedore brought Niagara to 22-20, but Siena would score three of the next four points to take the set.

Siena took a 2-0 lead after a commanding second set performance where the Saints hit a match-best .458 hitting percentage.  The third set had six ties and three lead changes. The Purple Eagles faced a similar dilemma late in the match as in the first set, but this time trailed 21-20 and was on serve. However, consecutive kills by the Saints halted a 3-0 spurt by Niagara and would then score two of the next three points to close out the match.

"The players battled hard with intensity and enthusiasm," Ozols said.  "However, unforced errors and little bit of experience in key moments made the difference."

Niagara is back on the court on Sunday when it hosts Marist at 1 p.m.