SANTA CRUZ, Calif. - The Fresno Pacific Sunbirds soared to a straight sets victory Monday night over the UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs. 

The 'Birds jumped to an early lead in the first set, with consistent kills and a strong serving game, including six aces.

Cambria Waites played a pivotal role, delivering multiple assists to Makayla Smith and Claire Corippo, who both contributed with key kills.

Fresno Pacific's efficiency was clear, with a .323 hitting percentage, while UC Santa Cruz struggled with attack errors.

The Sunbirds closed out the set comfortably at 25-13.

The second set was more competitive, with six ties and three lead changes as the Banana Slugs fought back.

Smith led with kills and was supported by Geneva Elliott, whose blocking proved crucial.

UC Santa Cruz closed the gap to 24-19, but McKenna Hughes secured the set for Fresno Pacific with a service ace, finishing 25-19.

The third set saw the closest competition, with 23 ties and 10 lead changes.

The Sunbirds managed key plays under pressure, including a late kill by Gilcrest and a service ace by Waites to break the 25-25 tie.

Strong performances from Smith and Corippo, combined with UC Santa Cruz's errors, allowed Fresno Pacific to edge out UC Santa Cruz 27-25, sealing the match victory in a sweep.

The Sunbirds will fly out tomorrow for their three game PacWest island trip as they take on Hawaii Pacific, Chaminade, and Hawaii Hilo all this week. 
 

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