BROOKLYN, N.Y. — The Sharks began NEC play in memorable fashion on Friday night.

Taking on Saint Francis at home, LIU kicked things off with a bang by winning the first two sets. The team held off a late attack from Saint Francis, ultimately coming out to win by a score of 3-2.

Senior Camelia Melendez was instrumental in the win, leading the team with 25 kills and 5 spikes. Redshirt senior Iremnur Elmas also put forth a strong effort, contributing 9 kills and 5 spikes of her own.

"I thought we started pretty tough and pushed them out of system a little bit, " head coach Amable Martinez said of his team's strategy. "That allowed our offense to get going by getting balls in an easier setting, and also allowed us to play defense in a more relaxed setting."

The Sharks won't have to wait long to see if the team can capitalize on this momentum, as LIU hosts Saint Francis once more Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. Sharks fans can watch all the action on NEC Front Row.