It's been a slow start for the Nipissing Lakers women's volleyball team despite improved play lately.

The Lakers, who struggled out of the gate, have picked up their game, but are still searching for their first win of the season after lsoing 3-0 to the Toronto Varsity Blues Friday night on the road.

Toronto led from start to finish in the first set, winning 25-16 to kick off the match and set the tone.

In the second set, the Lakers fought back and forced Toronto step up their game, unfortunately, the undefeated Varsity Blues did just that and took home the second set by a final of 25-20.

It was a different story in the third set, however, as Toronto wrapped up the match with a 25-12 win.

Erika Lapierre picked up 10 kills to lead the Nipissing attack, while Vicky Willars and Tracy Hammerton each added four of their own.

The Lakers are back in action Saturday when they face the Ryerson Rams.

Game time is set for 6 p.m.