Newark, N.J. - The College of Saint Elizabeth's volleyball team (0-1, 0-0 NEAC) dropped its season opener to Rutgers-Newark, 3-0 (13-25, 16-25, 10-25) on Thursday evening.

The Eagles hung tough in set one, matching Rutgers point for point for the first 22 points. Rutgers then ran off the next five points to take a 16-11 lead. CSE won two of the next four points, but could not mount a comeback, dropping the set 25-13.

After dropping the second set 25-16, the Eagles needed a strong third set to get back in the match. After falling behind 3-0, CSE won three of the next four points to get back within one. Mid way through the match however, Rutgers sprung a 12-1 run to open up a 19-5 lead. The Eagles continued to fight, but it was not enough as they dropped the set 25-10.

In her first collegiate game, Stephanie Mitarotond had a team high eight digs and one service ace. Julia Misiejuk had a team high four kills while Nicole Morera added ten assists.

The Eagles return to action on Saturday when they host Pratt Institute and Old Westbury in their home opening tri-match, beginning at 10 am.