FRESNO, Calif. – Fresno Pacific surrendered a 2-0 lead before falling to Azusa Pacific in five sets on Saturday despite a double-doubled of 16 kills and 23 digs from Karah Mitchell. Set scores were 21-25, 21-25, 25-12, 25-20 and 15-7 at the Special Events Center.
 
FPU drops its third straight match and moves to 8-12 overall and 6-10 in league play with the setback, while APU improves to 12-13 overall and 8-8 in the PacWest.
 
The Sunbirds played well in the opening two sets to jump out to a 2-0 lead in the match. With the first set tied 17-17, FPU used a 6-1 run to gain control and eventually earn the win. The Sunbirds then hit .239 in the second set and looked to be in control. APU answered, however, with three consecutive set wins to take the match. The Cougars hit .438 in the third and .474 in the fifth set to escape Fresno with the victory.
 
Mitchell's double-double was her fourth straight in as many matches and 11th of the season. Her 23 digs were a season and career high. Montana Lowe added 14 kills on .382 hitting for the Sunbirds, while Jasmine Phoolka totaled 11 kills and 14 digs. Bissie DenHartog dished out 45 assists and Chelsea Speaks added 18 digs.
 
The Sunbirds struggled to defend the APU serve, as the Cougars totaled nine service aces. APU also out-blocked FPU 12-8 on the night.
 
Julianna Miller led the Cougars with 22 kills (.559), while Shaylah Kagehiro amassed 24 assists.
 
FPU continues PacWest play on Friday, Nov. 11 at home against Chaminade at 3 p.m.