Slow start plagues Nittany Lions

York, Pa. - The Hazleton Nittany Lions fell in their first Penn State University Athletic Conference game of the 2021 season on Tuesday night, dropping a road match at Penn State York three sets to none. Hazleton combined for just 18 points in sets one and two before turning up the offense in set three where the Nittany Lions nearly forced a fourth frame. Hazleton battled through long rallies during the final set and took their first lead of the match midway through set three with a 13-11 advantage. Both squads would trade points over the next several exchanges until a late run by York closed the door on any hope for a Hazleton comeback. Despite the fourth straight loss for the Lions, the young Hazleton squad continues to develop with each and every match. Kayla Nothstein (Palmerton, Pa.) topped all Hazleton scorers with five kills and three blocks on the night, while Alessandra Banta (Coatesville, Pa.) led the Lions with five assists. Hazleton will be back in action on Thursday night when they travel to the University of Valley Forge for a 7:00 p.m. non-conference bout.