BRADFORD, Pa. - The Franciscan University Lady Barons split their two matches on Saturday, defeating conference opponent Pitt Bradford and losing to Houghton. The Lady Barons now own an 7-10 record on the season and have an AMCC record of 2-2.

The Lady Barons played a competitive, five game, match against the University of Pitt Bradford Panthers with Franciscan winning 3-2.

"All of our hitters played very well." Head coach, Kelly Herrmann said. "This was a great conference win for us."

Sophomore Amy O'Keefe played a well rounded game with 27 assists and 14 digs. Freshman, Sam Kelly also had a strong performance with 32 digs.

"Sam is key to our game," Herrmann said. "She is so strong and steady."

Another freshman, Dani Link, also had a strong offensive game with 14 kills in the two games. Her rising play throughout the season has helped the team find more offense alongside all-conference hitter, Anna Cain.

"Dani is really playing well and has become a great compliment to Anna!" Herrmann complimented.

Cain, the Lady Baron's captain, had 22 kills while Maria Prezzia chipped in with another 10 kills. Christina Lawrence had 27 digs to shut down Pitt Bradford's offensive attempts.

The Lady Barons second game was against Houghton. Franciscan University lost their second five game match 2-3. The Lady Barons kept the match close and had one of their most competitive outings of the season.

"They are a very strong team," Herrmann said. "I think we surprised them a little. We never gave up and gave ourselves a chance to win."

After dropping the first two matches, The Lady Barons fought back and tied the match 2-2 only to drop the last game 12-15.

"We made some changes and responded very well," Herrmann said.

Offensively, Anna Cain had 11 kills, Maria Prezzia had 9 kills and Dani Link had 7 kills. Amy O'Keefe spread the ball around with 20 assists. Defensively, Prezzia had 26 digs, Kelly had 23 digs, and Lawrence had 12 digs.

"Today was a good day of volleyball for us," Herrmann said. "I am very proud of our team."

The Lady Barons now prepare for a home game against Washington & Jefferson on Monday, October 1.