SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- The Springfield College Pride defeated the Simmons Sharks, 3-0 (25-12, 25-15, 25-15) Friday evening on the first day of the Springfield Invitational.
Simmons was limited to a .058 hitting percentage, despite the standout play of sophomore Nicole Alberghini (Northborough, Mass.), who registered eight kills on 12 errorless attempts. Freshman Andalyn Duke (Litchfield Park, Ariz.) led the Sharks defense with seven digs, while Morgan Kieon (North Attleboro, Mass.) and Duke each posted eight assists.
The Pride's Daniella Crismani started off the season on a strong note, posting a career-best 15 kills at an impressive .565 clip. In her collegiate debut, Lauren Holt had her way in the middle, notching eight kills on 10 errorless swings. Fellow middle Elise Brogan added seven kills while hitting .462, and Meghan Kinee anchored the defense with a match-best 15 digs.
The Invitational continues Saturday morning as the Sharks face Amherst College at 10:00 a.m. The semifinals will commence at 12:30 p.m. followed by the championship game at 2:30 p.m.