FRESNO, Calif.- A two game home match win streak came to an end Monday afternoon as they Fresno Pacific Sunbirds faltered 3-2 against the Vanguard Lions in a highly contest match at the Special Events Center. 

Fresno Pacific came out strong in the opening set, building momentum early with a balanced attack led by Madison Girnius and Mia Gilcrest.

The Sunbirds capitalized on Vanguard's errors, to extend their lead. 

Cambria Waites distributed the ball effectively, notching multiple assists as Fresno stayed in control.

The Sunbirds' defense, anchored by blocks from Geneva Elliott and Madison Girnius, stifled Vanguard's offense, allowing Fresno Pacific to secure a comfortable 25-19 win in the first set.

The second set saw a stronger and more composed Vanguard team.  

The Sunbirds struggled with consistency, committing several attack errors, particularly late in the set.

Vanguard jumped out to an early lead, but Fresno Pacific chipped away with timely kills from Claire Corippo and Girnius.

Despite a spirited comeback attempt, Vanguard maintained their composure with key kills and a crucial service ace to win the set 25-22, evening the match at 1-1.

The third set was tightly contested as both teams traded points early.

Girnius dominated the set for the 'Birds delivering timely kills.

However, Vanguard's defense stiffened, providing critical blocks, as the Sunbirds offense struggled. 

The Lions managed to pull away in the middle of the set.

Despite Fresno's efforts to close the gap, Vanguard held on to win 25-21 and take a 2-1 lead in the match. 

Now down a set, Fresno Pacific responded with determination in the fourth set. Gilcrest and Girnius led the Sunbirds recording multiple kills that put the Lions on their heels.

The Sunbirds cleaned up their attack and reduced errors, allowing them to control the tempo.

A solid blocking performance from Geneva Elliott and timely digs from Waites kept Vanguard's offense in check.

Fresno Pacific maintained a comfortable lead throughout the set, eventually winning 25-19 to force a decisive fifth set.

The final set was an intense battle, with both teams exchanging the lead multiple times.

Fresno Pacific started strong, with Girnius and Waites contributing key points.

The Sunbirds jumped ahead early, but Vanguard quickly responded.

The set remained close until Vanguard managed to pull ahead 14-12.

Despite the loss, Girnius had a season and career high 18 kills.

The 'Birds saved one match point, but Vanguard ultimately closed it out 15-13, clinching the match in five sets.

Fresno Pacific will look to rebound quickly as they host the Azusa Pacific Cougars Friday at 5pm at the Special Events Center. 


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