GRAND FORKS, N.D. - The University of North Dakota (2-9, 2-7 Summit) forced 15 score ties and combined for six lead changes in the first and third set, but could not overcome Denver (8-1 Summit) in the series opener, 13-25, 14-25, 14-25.

"We're finding new ways to fight, and credit Denver for how they played today. They present a good challenge for us. We gotta be goldfish, use our short term and move forward tomorrow," said Head Coach Jeremiah Tiffin.

The Fighting Hawks challenged Denver in the opening set, forcing an early Pioneer timeout to allow DU to recollect themselves. Denver took the opening frame, 25-13, and continued that momentum in the second set to take a 2-0 lead in the match. The Hawks rallied and pushed back against the Pios but dug too deep of a hole to climb out of.

In the final set, UND responded and opened as it did in the first frame, challenging the Pioneers and forcing another early timeout. Errors cost the Hawks in the match as Denver recorded 12 blocks to overpower North Dakota.

On top of their prowess at the net, the Pioneers hit .292 in the match. Taylor Riedl led UND with six kills, while Lexi Ahrens, Alexa Albinson, and Elizabeth Norris each notched four kills. The Fighting Hawks also tallied four blocks.

The series with Denver will conclude tomorrow with the first serve set for 1 p.m. Central.