Annandale, VA - Howard started out strong, showing an ability to hang with a strong Northern Virginia team before eventually being overrun by the Nighthawks.

Going up against a regional powerhouse, the Dragons stayed with NOVA, trailing just 15-13 in the first set thanks to a kill then a block by Kira Thompson (Elkridge, MD/Atholton). The Nighthawks responded by winning nine of the next 10 points to take control of the set.

NOVA started the next two sets on 5-0 and 6-0 runs respectively and never looked back as they defeated Howard in straight sets.

Natalie Hosseini (Ellicott City, MD/Mt. Hebron) continued to be an offensive force for the Dragons with eight kills in the match. Thompson closed with three kills, two aces and two blocks in her best match as a Dragon while setter Sabrina Lagomarsino (Clarksville, MD/Atholton) accounted for 13 assists.

Howard will finally get to enjoy their home opener as they take on the Allegany Trogans on Tuesday, September 10 at 7 PM.