SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. – Host Shepherd University posted a 3-1 (25-22, 27-25, 14-25, 25-19) win over UVa-Wise in the Mountain East Conference opener for both schools on Friday.  The Rams' Taylor Belella handed out a match-high 43 assists in the win as Shepherd had three players register double-digit kills.

UVa-Wise (3-5, 0-1 MEC) received 17 kills from Karley Allen and 40 assists from Ashley Hooven while Brittni Altmann added 18 digs in defeat.

Shepherd's (5-4, 1-0 MEC) Samantha Scroggins matched Altmann for match-high dig honors with 18 while Valerie Bour's 16 kills led the Rams.

UVa-Wise will play again Saturday at Fairmont State. First serve is set for 1 pm.