Box Score 1 | Box Score 2 They are often the last line of defense. Morgen Coleman and Cassie Doerr took good care of the rear flank Friday, coming up with 29  and 27 digs respectively for Hamline on the first day of action at the Loras Invitational. Unfortunately for the Pipers, they ran into a pair of hitting and dropped 3-0 decision to Dubuque and the host school. 

The Pipers took on then undefeated Spartans in the first match of the day. Dubuque is not rated yet nationally but that may change after extending their record to 6-0 with the win over HU. Cass Bittle topped the HU offense with 11 kills. Coleman had a double-double with a team high 11 assists and 13 digs while Doerr added 11 digs. Hamline did improve in every game, falling by 25-15, 25-17 and 25-18. 

The Duhawks got some key points at the end of each set for 25-19, 25-20 and 25-19 wins. Coleman and Doerr shared digs honors with 16 each. 

Hamline, now 3-5 overall, will be up and at 'em early Saturday. The Pipers face Carroll (Wis.) at 9:00 a.m. It's a rematch of thrilling battle last Saturday in Northfield that saw Hamline nrally for a 3-2 win. HU then finishes the weekend with a 11:00 a.m. matchup with Cornell (Iowa). The MIAC season opens Wednesday, September 13 with Hamline hosting Gustavus Adolphus at Hutton Arena. Game time is 7:00 p.m.