PURCHASE, N.Y. - The Purchase College women's volleyball team was defeated by Albertus Magnus College Thursday evening, as the team celebrated its 2023 home opener.

Set scores for the contest were 25-20, 25-21 and 25-22. With the loss, the Panthers dropped to 1-1 overall. For the Falcons, they moved to 2-1.

The opening set saw close action between the two sides until a six-point run by the guests midway through tipped the lead in their favor. 

Set two saw Purchase fall behind early, before eventually rallying back to tie the game late, 21-21. Unfortunately, Albertus Magnus then responded with four straight points to claim the frame.

In the final stanza of the night, the visitors used two four-point runs to create separation during the middle of the match, before a late run got the Blue and Orange back within one point.

However, the hosts were unable to overcome the deficit and eventually fell by the score of 25-22.

Overall, Purchase hit .009 with 25 kills in the effort, while the visitors finished with .064 hitting and 31 kills.

Individually, Marcella Pena (FR) finished with team highs in kills (7) and aces (3).

Natalia Leite (FR/Thornwood, NY) totaled a match-high 19 assists and 12 digs, while Lauren White (JR/Washington, DC) added five kills and 11 digs.

Up next for the Panthers is a few days of rest before they return to action on September 12th for a tri-match at Baruch College.