ELIZABETHTOWN, PA- The shorthanded Highlanders played three matches over the weekend, fighting valiantly, but unfortunately coming away with zero victories for their excellent effort.
 
After a long bus ride to Elizabethtown, the Highlanders took on Rowan University in their first match. With tired legs playing a huge factor, Cairn was unable to put together any momentum, dropping the match in three sets, despite improving each set. After a good night's sleep, the Highlanders took on Eastern Mennonite University on Saturday morning. With a greatly improved offensive attack to the day prior, the Highlanders were able to threaten the Royals, putting together a number of runs to scrape ever closer to a win. However, the more consistent offensive play wasn't enough to overcome EMU's impressive defense and the Highlanders fell in match two as well. Frustrated with the middling results after two days, the Highlanders came to play in their third match of the weekend against Misericordia University. Two straight service aces from freshman Caroline Bennett and a kill from Haley Sheehan, sparked a five point run in the first set. The Cougars eked out a close win in the first two sets, and used a six point run to take control of the third set despite the Highlanders greatly improved play.

While the Highlanders may have lost there were a number of positives to take away from the weekend, namely an increased focus on middles Brooke Seidel and Ally Barnes in the offensive gameplan. The increased chemistry between the middles and setter Liz White opened up a number of great opportunities for excellent outside hitter Haley Sheehan, who was named to the all-tournament team for her play over the weekend. 
 
With a full squad coming back, the Highlanders will greatly anticipate the chance to tally another victory when they host the University of Valley Forge at 7:00 PM Wednesday night.