HOUGHTON, N.Y. -- Houghton jumped out to a two-set lead but gave up three-straight to Cortland in a 3-2 loss on the first day of the Highlanders Invitational Tournament on Friday.

Scores were 25-23, 25-19, 20-25, 23-25, 16-18.

The Highlanders looked to have things in hand after grabbing two tough games to start the night, but the Dragons roared back to two-straight, sending the match to the decisive fifth set. Houghton fell behind 9-6 in the fifth, but climbed back in and actually had two match points at 14-13 and 16-15, but Cortland closed the match with three straight points to grab the win.

Hattie Burgher led the attack for Houghton with 22 kills and .432 hitting percentage. She also added 16 digs. Hannah Compeau chipped in with 16 kills and 14 digs. Laurel Wroblicky finished with a team-high 22 digs, while Meagan Palm (11 kills) and Anna Coryell (42 assists) also turned in strong performances.

Houghton (15-11) is back in action for two matches on Saturday, taking on Buffalo State at 11 a.m. and conference rival Alfred at 3 p.m.

Buffalo State defeated Alfred in Friday's other match, 3-0 (25-7, 25-23, 25-13).

Match scores will be updated throughout the day at the tournament web site.