ONEONTA, N.Y. – The Houghton Highlanders picked up two much-needed conference victories at the Hartwick College tri-match on Saturday, defeating Alfred University, 3-1, in the opener, before beating the host Hawks in the second match of the day, 3-0.
 
The Highlanders displayed a well-balanced attack in both games, averaging 26.6% hitting against Alfred and 21.9% against Hartwick. 
 
Defensively, Houghton meshed well on the court, posting 56 digs, 10 blocks and only nine receiving errors in the first game, and 57 digs, nine blocks and only five receiving errors in game two.
 
Match Vitals
Match #1: Houghton – 3 | Alfred University – 1 (22-25, 25-15, 25-21, 25-12)
Match #2: Houghton – 3 | Hartwick – 0 (25-18, 27-25, 25-17)
Records: Houghton: 6-5 (2-1 E8) | Alfred: 7-9 (1-1 E8)  | Hartwick: 5-8 (1-3 E8)
Venue: Binder Gymnasium's Lambros Arena, Hartwick College

Key Stats
>> Naomi Prentice racked up 15 kills and six blocks in game one, then added 10 kills and a block in game two.
>> Erica Barney posted nine kills and 15 digs in the first game, while collecting seven kills and 17 digs in the second.
>> Setter Anna Coryell finished with 27 assists in game one and 20 in game two.
 
Coach's Corner
"The team did a nice job meshing on the court in to key sets.  We came from behind and were able to finish, which is something we've struggled with a number of times this season." –Coach Nancy Cole

Next Time Out
The Highlanders return to the Nielsen Center for Wednesday's non-conference home matchup with the College at Brockport at 7:00 p.m.