ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Houghton men's volleyball got its first season underway with a 3-0 loss to No. 9 St. John Fisher on the road Friday night.

The Highlanders lost 25-8, 25-11, 25-14.

The first set was back and forth early, before the high-powered Cardinals began a run that gave them the win. The second and third sets were tighter as the Highlanders began to play with more confidence and overcame the first-match jitters.

Elijah Sproull led the way offensively with five kills, while adding two digs and two blocks. Elijah Studt chipped in with four kills and was the team's most efficient attacker with a .429 hitting percentage.

Anthony Panboon contributed a team-high seven digs and Jerry Buno finished with six assists, to lead the team in that category.

"Tonight's season opener against powerhouse Fisher was far better played than the score reflected," said Head Coach Lindsay Seddon. "Our guys faced the challenge with grace by celebrating and encouraging each other after each point. We got better as the match progressed, surpassing the score from each prior set which was a goal well achieved. 
 
"The seasoned players never gave up on the newer players to the game, supporting their teammates every step of the way. Coach Dave and I are so excited with the amount of raw talent, athleticism, and dedication this team brings to the court every single day.  This is just the beginning."

Houghton is back in action on Saturday when they travel back to Rochester to battled No. 11 Nazareth at noon.