New Rochelle, NY - The Iona College volleyball team dropped its first of a four-match homestand with a 3-1 loss to Loyola at the Hynes Athletics Center.  The Greyhounds (12-8, 4-2) won in four games; 30-21, 30-26, 25-30, 30-19 over the Gaels (6-12, 4-2).  Iona has now lost two consecutive Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference contests after winning its first four of the season.

Loyola showed contol over much of the initial two games.  With the score tied at 14-14 in game one, Iona struggled to hold the serve and managed just seven points to Loyola's 16.  Game two saw the Greyhounds take a slim .244-.239 advantage in hitting percentage while pulling out the victory with an 8-4 run to close the game.  The Maroon & Gold refused elimination with a solid game three win, but could not repeat the victory as Loyola closed the book on the match in the next game.

Junior Kendall Paulus added another double-double to her career total with 10 kills and 11 digs.  Senior Kristin Allain led the offensive attack with 11 kills, while rookie Allison Nieters' 30 digs were a match high.

With a week free from competition, the Gaels return to action next weekend.  They will host Rider at 2:00 pm on Oct. 6.