East Union showed signs of its potential in its first match of the season Wednesday, but a lackluster start was too much for the Lancers to overcome in a 3-1 setback at Lodi.

The host Flames dominated the opening game 25-9 and did enough to claim the second and fourth with 29-27 and 25-18 scores. East Union won Game 3, 25-19.

“We were just not ready to play,” East Union coach Rich Posz said. “I think the girls were kind of shocked with how big the girls on the other team were. They served tough and we didn’t pass all that well.”

The poor start spilled over into the second set when the Lancers dug themselves a 2-14 hole. Amy Gann then went on an eight-point serving run highlighted by a several aces to help give East Union some life.

“That gave the girls some confidence,” Posz said. “They knew they could compete with them from that point. We were able to get out and attack more.”

Melissa King and Haley England led the offense with 11 and nine kills, respectively. Destiny Flores picked up 10 digs.

East Union’s busy week resumes today with its home opener against Modesto, and Friday and Saturday with the Central Valley Classic.

“We’re a young team that is predominantly made up of juniors,” Posz said. “We’re still trying to find out who we are.”