UNION, NJ- The Highlanders hit the road for their first match back after spring break, taking on the #3 nationally-ranked Kean University Cougars.
 
After a tough first set against the Cougars high-powered offense, the Highlanders settled in; mounting a late run in the second set on kills from Ryan Ludvik, Scott Bassill, and powerful serving from Aaron Delbury. Cairn dropped the second set 25-18, but got over the hump in the third set. Trailing 20-17, the Highlanders scored 6 of the next 8 points to take a 23-22. Ludvik and Bassill each carded kills to put the Highlanders ahead, and middle Collin Benjamin carded a huge block to give the Highlanders a 26-24 win. Riding the momentum of the third set win, the Highlanders took a 17-16 lead late in the set. The Cougars bounced back to take a late lead, and finish off the match 25-23, 3-1.
 
Despite the loss, the Highlanders hung with one of the nation's top teams and will seek to ride the momentum of a match well-played into the rest of the season. Ludvik led the Highlanders with 10 kills, 11 assists, and 6 digs, while Bassill and freshman Dave Cassel finished with 5 and 4 kills respectively.
 
The Highlanders host Elizabethtown College Friday night at 7:00 PM, before hosting a tri-match against Hunter College and Juniata College Saturday night.