SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- A historically large freshman class continues to show the Robert Morris volleyball team has a bright future as it tries to ride out its present struggles.

First-year middle blockers Maria Alfano, the former Seneca Valley star, and Emma Granger, already a three-time Molten/NEC Rookie of the Week, were key contributors to the Colonials' (9-12, 3-3) cause in their straight-sets defeat (21-25, 21-25, 23-25) at the hands of Bryant at the Chace Athletic Center Friday night.

RMU, which entered the contest as the Northeast Conference's leader in team hitting percentage, saw Granger attack at a team-high .545 clip and also lead the way defensively with six blocks, while Alfano paced the offense with eight kills. Granger finished with seven.

Granger, in addition, added two more service aces to her NEC lead, taking an even 40 into Saturday. Robert Morris, also the conference leader in team aces, delivered eight to Bryant's two.

She entered Friday sixth in the nation in total aces and second in the NEC with a .358 attack average. Alfano came into town No. 7 in the conference with a .263 average.

Unfortunately, their combined efforts weren't enough to slow the surging Bulldogs (15-8, 6-0), who have now won 13 of their last 15 matches overall to take a commanding lead in the NEC standings.

In each set, the Colonials clawed back after falling behind, out-blocking the hard-hitting Bryant squad 19-11 (9.5-6.0 team), but could never entirely close the gap. The first frame, in particular, featured five ties and four lead changes.

One other moment of note for a western Pa. native saw setter Whitney Brown, a member of Alfano's recruiting class, sub in during the third set and ace a serve that cut the Bulldogs' lead to 22-21. It was the first service ace for the ex-Avonworth captain and PIAA champion since a Sept. 9 win over LaSalle.

Brown's elder, starting setter Brianna Frakes, led all players with 27 assists, also ending with five digs. She continues to rank among the NEC's top three in total helpers.

Robert Morris will try to snap a three-match skid at Central Connecticut Saturday afternoon, with first serve from Detrick Gymnasium set for 4:00 p.m.

Follow the Colonials: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram