The Canisius Volleyball team was swept by MAAC rival Rider, 3-0, Sunday afternoon from the Koessler Athletic Center. The defeat closes out the Griffs home opening weekend, which saw the team go 1-1.

The Golden Griffins, who lost in straight sets (25-16, 25-17 and 25-16), were led by sophomore Sara Wesley who recorded eight kills, along with freshman Cassidy Ceriani who finished the day with a team-leading 19 assists and added 10 digs. Ceriani also led the Griffs in attack percentage at .273 on five kills.

Junior Kristen Plukas led the Blue and Gold in digs (12) and was second on the team in assists (4).

“We now have to focus forward and work on the little things,” said head coach Lenika Vazquez. “We will definitely add an element of pursuit, staying on our feet. I'll be very specific in practices to move forward from here.”

The Griffs have lost three of their first four conference matches moving to 3-10 on the season. The Broncs are now 7-9 and 1-3 in the conference.

 GAME NOTES
• With the loss, the Griffs series lead over the Broncs moves to 27-7.
• Ceriani currently leads the Blue and Gold in attack percentage at .215, with Wesley having the second highest percentage at .189. Ceriani also leads the Griffs in assists, recording 335 of 431 for the team.

NEXT UP
The Griffs will continue MAAC play next weekend when they travel to Quinnipiac on Saturday, before facing Fairfield on the road Sunday. Both matches are slated for 1 p.m.