NEWPORT NEWS, VA - After a hot early start, the Cavaliers never regained its collective footing, as the Cabrini volleyball team suffered a 3-0 (25-23, 25-14, 25-18) loss to Christopher Newport in the opener of the Captain's Classic.

Senior Hannah Dalton led the Blue and White with 10 kills, seven digs and a career best five service aces.

Sophomore Melanie Cotes-Rivera added 12 assists, while senior Lexi Conte handed out seven assists and sophomore Morgan Mendick added nine digs.

Cabrini grabbed an early three point lead in the opening set and led throughout much of the frame. Freshman Jessie Donovan's service ace put the Cavaliers ahead 21-18, but the home team rallied for three consecutive points to even the score. The Blue and White then grabbed slim leads at 22-21 and 23-22 before the Captains recorded the final three points of the set.

The Cavaliers looked to rally in the second set, but could not overcome recording just three kills against seven attack errors.

After surrendering the opening seven points of the third set, the Cavaliers rallied to pull within 14-13 on a Dalton kill. The home team had an answer, using a 5-0 spurt to regain control of the final frame.

Christopher Newport (1-1) took advantage of 14 service aces and nine total blocks, while Sammie Carroll served up 31 assists.

The Cavaliers will look to rally on Saturday with a pair of matches to close the Classic. Cabrini will face Lynchburg at 10am and Susquehanna at 2pm.