EASTON, PA—Three Highlanders recorded match-high honors with 12 kills leading, visiting NJIT to a 3-1 victory over host Lafayette Friday evening in the opening round of the Lafayette Invitational at the Kirby Sports Center.

NJIT won the first two frames by identical scores, 25-19 but the Leopards were victorious in the third frame, winning in extra points, 29-27.  The Highlanders rallied back to clinch the match, 25-20, in the fourth frame, improving to an even 6-6 on the season.  Host Lafayette drops to 2-6 on the season.

The Highlanders were led by senior transfers Katarzyna Klocek, Weronika Wiezik and junior Tess Albyn, each, combining for 12 kills apiece. 

Newcomer Anna Rodrigues, the Highlanders setter, posted her second double-double of the season, registering 40 assists and match-best 16 digs.  Rodrigues recorded a .429 hitting percentage (4k, 1e, 7a) while, adding two block assists.

Sophomore libero Adriana Nieto recorded 15 digs while freshman Olivia Welsch added 12 digs in the win.

The Highlanders edged Lafayette in the service ace category, 10-7, paced by sophomore Emily Krachenfels four aces followed by three from Welsch.

Middle Mikalah Hughes led the Highlanders with five block assists in front of the net while Albyn and Anneka Harris combined for three block assists apiece.

Host Lafayette was paced by Elizabeth Walsh's 11 kills.  Setter Maria Balus registered 28 assists and eight digs while Katie Kidder led the match with 18 digs.  Sonia Musso followed with 16 digs for the Leopards.

NJIT will return to action on Saturday and will face St. Francis Brooklyn at 12:30 and conclude the tournament against Manhattan at 6pm. 

The Highlanders defeated the Terriers on September 3, 3-0, at the Terrier Invitational