PULASKI, Tenn. – The Martin Methodist Volleyball team was unable to overcome a shaky start in a 3-0 loss to Asbury (Ky.) College in its home opener at the Curry Christian Life Center Monday night.

Playing in front of a home crowd, the RedHawks (0-3) fell behind early in the first set; before a mid-set rally saw the club pull to a 23-16 deficit. That would be as close as the RedHawks would get, however, as the Eagles rattled off two of the next three points to claim a 25-17 opening-set victory.

In the second set, the RedHawks struck for an early 5-3 lead, but saw the Eagles (6-4) storm ahead and take the frame by a 25-12 margin.

Another slow start plagued the RedHawks in the third and final set, as the Eagles raced out to a 14-6 lead and pulled away to a 25-13 victory.

Gloria Watson led the charge offensively for the RedHawks, posting nine kills on 29 total attacks for a .172 attack percentage.

Sophia Paes and Ashley James served as the primary helpers on the night, notching nine and seven assists apiece. James and Andi Carney turned in six digs apiece in the loss.

Despite the loss, the RedHawks have a chance to rebound quickly when they host Brenau (Ga.) in their Southern States Athletic Conference opener Tuesday night. The match will mark the first SSAC contest in school history.

First serve in Tuesday's contest is set for 7 p.m. in the Curry Christian Life Center.