Merced, CA – The Hope International men's volleyball team (0-1) opened their season on the road as they fell 3-0 to the UC Merced Bobcats (RV) on Tuesday evening in Merced, CA.

The Bobcats got off to a fast start in the first set as they took an early 11-2 lead. The Royals were able to stem the tide for a bit as the scored back to back points including a kill from Coby Prowse, but the Bobcats had all the answers as they went on to take the first set 25-10. The second set was a battle as the Royals looked to get back in the game. The Royals would take the lead multiple times but could never pull away as they led 10-9 thanks to a kill from Brian Castro. The Bobcats would regain the momentum as they went on a 5-1 scoring run to take a 17-13 lead. The Royals didn't give up as they got within 20-17 but the Bobcats would emerge with the 25-18 victory and a 2-0 lead. It continued to be tough sledding for the Royals as they fell behind 6-2 to start the third set but they regrouped and scored three straight points to tie it 6-6 led by a kill from Prowse. The Royals continued to keep it close as they trailed 14-12 but the Bobcats used a 5-0 run to take control as the Royals fell 25-18 and 3-0. Prowse led the Royals with 5 kills.

The Royals continue action on the road as they head South to Encinitas, CA to take part in the University of Saint Katherine tournament. First they will first take on Pacific Union College on Thursday, February 2 at 3:00 PM.