SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.- It was all Sunbirds from start to finish Tuesday night in San Francisco as they swept the Academy of Art 3-0. 

The first set was a closely contested battle with multiple lead changes.

The Sunbirds started strong with an attack error by the Urban Knights, and the teams traded points early on, with the score tied at 5-5.

FPU built momentum with key kills by Mia Gilcrest and Makayla Smith, eventually pulling ahead 15-9.

Academy of Art fought back, closing the gap to 19-18, but the Sunbird's defense, particularly from Madison Girnius and Gilcrest, helped seal the 25-22 set win.

The second set saw another tight contest.

Academy of Art took an early lead 4-2.

The 'Birds answered back with consistent play from Cambria Waites, who distributed the ball well, and timely kills by Yajaira Gahagan and Gilcrest.

The Urban Knights kept pace, tying the game multiple times up to 20-20.

However, Fresno Pacific's defense and a crucial block by Gahagan and Girnius helped them close out the set 25-21.

Fresno Pacific dominated the final set, jumping to a quick 4-1 lead.

With excellent offensive contributions from Gilcrest and Amani Abed, and solid defense from the team, FPU extended their lead to 20-13.

The Urban Knights struggled to maintain their momentum, making crucial errors that allowed the 'Birds to control the set.

Two consecutive service aces from Waites sealed the set and match at 25-14.

The Sunbirds will head back home for a matchup Saturday at 2pm against the Jessup Warriors. 
 

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