SCHENECTADY, N.Y. - The Bard College women's volleyball team defeated Union College, 3-1, to earn its first Liberty League victory on Friday.

After winning the first set, the Raptors stormed back from an 17-9 deficit to take the second set, 25-22. Union responded, taking the third set, but the Raptors were tough down the stretch and closed it out, 25-22, with another come-from-behind rally in the fourth set. Bard was down, 19-17, but scored five straight points, four coming on kills from Ryan Lum, and never relinquished the lead.

"Every match we have played so far this season prepared us for tonight's Liberty League opener," Bard coach Stefanie Carrington said. "We've built upon the successes and improved upon the places where we've fallen short. We knew we were capable of overcoming late-game deficits and, even when we were down in the fourth set tonight, our athletes stayed the course, played with confidence and never looked back once they regained the lead.

"We still have a lot of season left and lots of challenging conference opponents," Carrington continued, "but this was certainly an amazing way to kick off our Liberty League season. I couldn't be more proud of this outstanding group of women and look forward to the rest of the season with them."

Ryan Lum had 20 kills (.372), 18 digs and four aces for Bard. Emily Smith added 10 kills, Annie Couey had 13 digs, and Adi David had 33 assists.

"We couldn't have won without the contributions from every single member of out team," Carrington said. "In particular, Ryan Lum continued her stellar play from earlier this week and was nearly unstoppable at the net and from behind the service line. Anna Skamser was incredibly smart in her ability to see the court and mix up her swings. Adi David showed a new level of calm confidence and leadership running our offense but she was equally as impressive in her serving and defensive efforts."

Bard dives right back into Liberty League play when Skidmore comes to Annandale on Saturday afternoon.