The La Salle volleyball team opened the season with a hard-fought loss to Youngstown State on Friday at the Temple Invitational. After losing the first two games by scores of 19-30 and 28-30, the Explorers eked out a 34-32 win and then handled the Penguins easily in the fourth game, 30-16. However, the blue and gold couldn't complete the comeback and fell in the deciding fifth game, 13-15.

Sophomore Rachel Stemper led the Explorers with 14 kills while posting a .227 hitting percentage. Freshman Kayla Beck had a fine collegiate debut, registering five service aces and recording 23 digs, both team-highs. Sophomore Danielle DiMarco chipped in with 12 kills and 19 digs.

Youngstown State's Ruth Boscaljon led all players with 18 kills while teammate Dana Leslie posted a game-high 29 digs.

As a team, the Explorers hit a dismal .089 for the match, compared to Youngstown's .129.

La Salle looks to bounce back this afternoon when they take on Akron at 3:00 p.m.