The Briar Cliff women's volleyball team battled on the road Saturday afternoon but fell in straight sets to Mount Marty (23-25, 18-25, 20-25).

The Chargers came out strong in the opening frame, building an early lead behind kills from Kya Bradfield and Aubrey Hoeft. Briar Cliff held a 13-7 advantage before the Lancers responded with a late push to take the first set. The Chargers continued to battle through the second and third sets, showing fight late in each frame, but were unable to overcome Mount Marty's offensive rhythm.

Emma Brenelli and Tamika Eastman led the Briar Cliff attack with 8 kills apiece. Hoeft was efficient at the net, tallying 6 kills on a .667 hitting clip, while also adding 3 block assists. Bradfield also chipped in 6 kills and 2 blocks.

Setter Reese Strouth directed the offense with 16 assists and added 5 digs, while Kylie Hart contributed 14 assists. 

Avery Beller anchored the backline with 18 digs on the night. She was followed by Joana Neves, who added 5 digs and a service ace.

At the net, the Chargers totaled 10 block assists, led by Caton Firkins and Hoeft, who had 3 apiece. 

Briar Cliff moves to 8-13 overall and 2-8 in GPAC. The Chargers return to action this Wednesday evening, traveling to Sioux Center, IA, to take on the Dordt Defenders. First serve is set for 7:30 p.m.