The William Byrd opened the season at home Tuesday and dropped their debut to a strong Cave Spring team. The visiting Knights took a 25-21, 25-11 and 29-27 win.

“The girls put up a good fight in the third set,” said Byrd coach Allison Thornton. “It was a tough loss.”

Lauren Heck led the Terriers with 18 digs and 11 kills. Elena Boitnott dished out 11 assists while Faith Andrews contributed nine kills.

The girls will be back at home tonight to play host to Patrick Henry in another tough match, and next week it doesn’t get any easier. Byrd will play Salem on Monday, Jefferson Forest on Tuesday and Glenvar on Thursday, all in Vinton.