AZUSA, Calif. – Kelsie Harvey turned in her best performance of the season, but Azusa Pacific escaped with a 7-6 win over Fresno Pacific in Golden Coast Conference (GCC) play Saturday. Emily Marr led the Sunbird offense with her third hat-trick of the season.

FPU falls to 7-19 overall and 0-3 in GCC action with the defeat, while APU moves to 8-12 overall and 1-2 in league play.

"We played hard and smart the entire game," said head coach Bryan Suhovy. "I am disappointed with the loss, but proud of the fight our women showed. We had a few mistakes that APU capitalized on and we missed some opportunities on the offensive end. It was a solid weekend for us overall."

After both teams collectively scored six goals in the first three quarters, FPU and APU combined to find the back of the cage seven times in the final frame.

The Cougars used a 2-0 run in the middle of the fourth to take a 6-4 lead before a goal from FPU's Mallory Rettig cut the advantage to one with 3:45 remaining. The Cougars answered a minute later to extend their lead back to two, which proved to be the game winner. Marr capitalized on a five-meter penalty with :42 seconds left to make the final 7-6.

FPU held a 3-2 advantage at halftime.

Harvey's 18 blocks is the senior's highest total of the season. FPU's all-time leader in saves has recorded double-digit saves in 10 games this season.

The Sunbirds totaled nine steals in the defensive battle, highlighted by three from Marr.

The offense was led by Marr's three goals, while Keali Hanson tallied two. Rettig scored the final time for FPU in the defeat. Nia Apodaca facilitated the offense with three assists.

APU was led by Alba Espinar, who totaled four goals.

The Sunbirds continue GCC play against Santa Clara, who is currently receiving votes in the national poll, Thursday, April 2 on the road.