PRINCESS ANNE, Md. – The Gardner-Webb University volleyball team (2-4) fell in four sets against Quinnipiac University to begin the Henson Hawk Invitational on Friday, Sep. 8. 
 
Sophomore setter Morgan Hornaday opened the tournament with 13 digs and 19 assists recording her second double-double of the season. Junior middle blocker Autumn Flowers led the team in points at 10.5 with seven kills on a .429 hitting percentage. Freshmen outside hitter Jenna Otts led the team in kills with nine.
 
"It was an up and down match for us," said Head Coach Eric Plunkett. "We were inconsistent in our execution. This team is still learning to play, fight, and compete consistently."
 
Opening the first set, both sides were tight at 7-7 before the Bobcats clawed away and jumped in front 14-7. The 'Dawgs fought back to close the margin but Quinnipiac would close it out at 25-17. The second set was all Gardner-Webb, forcing the Bobcats to 14 errors and a -.235 hitting percentage. GWU would tie the contest at one set apiece before the Bobcats stormed back and claimed sets three and four for the 3-1 victory.
 
"Good thing for us is we get an immediate opportunity to compete again tonight and tomorrow", said Plunkett. "If we can steady ourselves out, I think we are in line to do well to close out this tournament, but as a team we need to step up to the challenge."
 
The Runnin' Bulldogs will continue play at the Henson Hawk Invitational on Friday, Sep. 8 at 6 p.m. versus the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.