LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ - The Explorers took to the road again Wednesday night, looking to establish something positive after a rough showing in last weekend's Greyhound Challenge. Standing in their way were the Rider Broncs, flying high with a record of 6-1, their best start to a season since 1984. The Blue & Gold knew they would have their hands full, as they not only had to attempt to matchup with a talented Broncs squad, headlined by MAAC Player of the Week Bridget Sheerin, but also a raucous home opening crowd of over 500 spirited fans at Alumni Gym. These factors proved to be too much for La Salle, as the Broncs sent the Explorers to their fourth consecutive straight-set defeat (25-16, 25-21, 25-13).
 
The Broncs knew that they had a size advantage at the net front and attempted to exploit it on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. They used a substantial hitting advantage (.265 to .113) and blocking advantage (8 total blocks to 0) to stifle the Explorers, never allowing the Blue & Gold to get into a rhythm on either side of the ball.
 
Kelly Perillo continued to be the go-to offensive presence for the Explorers. She notched 10 kills (.179), her sixth consecutive game with double-digit kills. Overall, she has posted double-digit kills in eight of the Explorers nine matches this season.
 
Michelle Healy continued her strong two-way play, just narrowly missing her third consecutive double-double, notching 20 assists and 9 digs. This was third time she has surpassed the 20-assist mark so far this season.
 
Erin Noga posted a season high 5 kills, while also contributed 5 digs for the Blue & Gold.
 
The Explorers are back in action this weekend, as they participate in the Crowne Plaza Philadelphia West Penn Invitational hosted at the historic Palestra. The Explorers will open tournament play Saturday at 4:00pm against Weber State. They will conclude tournament play on Sunday with matchups against Big 5 rival Temple at 10:00am and American at 4:00pm.