NEWARK, N.J. - The Pride continue their rough stretch as they fall on the road to Rutgers Newark. 

The Pride fall to 12-7 on the season and remain 0-2 in conference play. 
 

BY THE NUMBERS 

• Matthew Christ led the team offensively with 7 kills on 18 attempts, finishing with a .222 hitting percentage. He also contributed 1 block. 

• Michael Martino also posted 7 kills while adding 2 digs. 

• Josh Matchett played a key role as a setter, leading the team with 14 assists and adding 5 digs on defense. He also registered a service ace. 

• Stephen Marquis made his presence felt at the net, recording 2 solo blocks and 4 total points. 

HOW IT HAPPENED 

• Widener started strong by earning the first point, but Rutgers-Newark quickly responded and took control with a service ace from Massimo Roco. Widener struggled to find its rhythm offensively, committing several attack errors that allowed Rutgers-Newark to extend its lead. A bright spot came from Matthew Christ, who tallied an early kill, and Josh Matchett, who registered an assist. However, service errors plagued Widener, making it difficult to close the gap. Rutgers-Newark built momentum through a 6-1 run that included multiple service aces and strong net play, ultimately taking the first set 25-13. 

• The second set saw Widener put up more of a fight, with Michael Martino and Christ stepping up on the attack. Martino registered an early kill, while Jason Sandberg added another to keep the Pride within striking distance. Widener managed to tie the set multiple times, including at 5-5 after a kill from Christ. However, Rutgers-Newark responded with another dominant stretch, stringing together five straight points to pull ahead 10-5. Despite Matchett's efforts as a playmaker and a late kill from Stephen Marquis, Widener could not overcome the deficit. Rutgers-Newark maintained control and closed out the set 25-18. 

• Widener looked to mount a comeback, with Martino and Matchett continuing to drive the offense. The Pride kept pace early, tying the set at 9-9 after a series of strong defensive plays. However, Rutgers-Newark responded with another extended run, capitalizing on Widener errors and executing well on the attack. Widener attempted to rally behind a pair of late kills from Christ, but Rutgers-Newark's blocking at the net and efficient offense proved too much. A final kill from Rutgers-Newark sealed the set 25-18, securing the match sweep. 

UP NEXT 

The Pride will travel to Hoboken, N.J. as they face the 14-3 (1-0 MAC) Ducks of Stevens Institute of Technology on Saturday, March 15. First serve is at 1pm.