(HONOULU, HI) - The Hawaii Pacific University women's volleyball team took on the Fresno Pacific University Sunbirds Wednesday night at the Shark Tank. This was their second matchup of the season after a three-set loss to FPU in early October. The Sharks sought redemption but ended up losing the match in a close five sets (25-22, 25-21, 23-25, 13-25, 13-15).
The HPU Sharks came out swinging, dominating their opponents from the start. The Sharks achieved their highest hitting percentage in the first set at 0.333. They rallied through each point, rightfully earning their win in the first set. The Sharks continued their momentum and built a comfortable lead in the second set. They went on a 9-2 run during the middle of the set to tally the score at 19-12. However, Fresno Pacific did not give up. The Sunbirds managed to mount a comeback but fell short against the Sharks, with a final set score of 25-21.
The third set was a nail-biter. The Sharks started aggressively, earning a lot of points while the Sunbirds struggled. HPU had an 18-12 lead, but FPU did not relent, going on an 8-2 run to tie the score at 20-20. It was a neck-and-neck battle, and the Sunbirds ultimately came out on top. This slowed the Sharks' momentum for the fourth set, which they lost to FPU. The final set showcased true adversity from both sides. The Sharks began strong, leading the set 5-1. A service error gave the Sunbirds hope for a comeback. It turned into a sideout battle with close calls at the net. Ultimately, the Sunbirds sealed the match with a kill, finishing at 15-13.
Key Players
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Ella Dotson earned a double-double with 15 kills and 11 digs.
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Marley Sandoval followed closely with 12 kills and 5 blocks.
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Kate Allan also contributed with 12 kills.
- Sofia Copper had a stunning 6 blocks and 3 aces.
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Tehani Pescaia totaled 47 assists and 11 digs.
Fresno Pacific's Mia Gilcrest led with 21 kills and 7 digs. Makayla Smith added 14 kills and 2 aces. Mckenna Hughes led defensively with 31 digs, while Cambria Waites earned 51 assists.
The Sharks played an excellent match against the Sunbirds. They are looking forward to their last home game of the season this Saturday against William Jessup University. It will be senior night, honoring four of the Sharks:
Ella Dotson,
Tehani Pescaia,
Brynne Hopeau-Lampitoc, and
Ali Rumpel. Come out and support the final home match! Go Sharks