ATHENS, Ohio – Virginia Commonwealth University received eight kills and three blocks from sophomore Kristin Boyd (Wilmington, N.C.), but the Rams couldn't overcome potent Ohio University in a 3-0 (25-14, 25-18, 25-16) loss Friday morning at The Convocation Center in the season-opener for both schools.

VCU had difficulty slowing the back-to-back Mid-American Conference Champions, who hit .432 for the match. The Rams never led couldn't erase 21 hitting errors in the match. It was a tough test for the Black and Gold.

Ohio has won six of the last seven MAC Tournament Championships and has reached seven straight NCAA Tournaments. The Bobcats are currently listed in the top 40 of the AVCA Coaches Poll.

"The excitement of opening the season was outstanding and the girls were ready," commented VCU Head Coach James Finley. "We had some trouble executing on offense. I thought we passed the ball well, but didn't read the blockers well."

Senior Mariel Frey (Lititz, Pa.) added six kills and junior Jessica Ojukwu (Sao Paulo, Brazil) contributed five for the Rams. As the Rams attempt to integrate eight new players into their system, bumps along the way are expected, but Finley was pleased with his team's overall effort.


"I was proud of Marisa Low, I thought she played outstanding," Finley said. "Courtney Hott was making her first start today and she played well and had great energy. [freshman setter] Ciara Brown took her lumps today in regard to decision making and some other things, but it was good seeing her hang in there in keep playing. We got some good feedback from the players and we'll continue to make adjustments as we move forward."


All-MAC outside hitter Sue Jacobi led the Bobcats with 11 kills, while Mandy Nichols added 10 and hit .643.

The Rams will pack up and head to Columbus, Ohio to play Ohio State Friday night at 7 p.m.