NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Averett University volleyball lost its first two matches to some tough competition at the Christopher Newport University Invitational on Friday. The Cougars fell 3-0 to No. 3 CNU, then lost 3-0 to Bethany College, which was receiving votes in the national poll two weeks ago.

Averett (8-5) opened with host Christopher Newport (10-0). The Captains won 25-14 and 25-14, then held off the Cougars 25-23 in the third set. Sophomore Hannah Shields had a team-high nine kills, seven digs and four service aces against the nationally ranked Captains. Senior Leslie Fulton and sophomore Sarah Smoot had seven kills and six kills, respectively. Freshman Danielle Reed made 12 assists.

Bethany (9-3) downed Averett 25-16, 25-20 and 25-18 to finish off the first day for the Cougars. Sheilds once again led Averett with eight kills and added 11 digs. Sophomore Christiana Summa made a team-best 14 digs and Reed had 12 assists.

Averett faces No. 4 Juniata College and DeSales University on Saturday.