ATHERTON, Calif.- Back from their big island trip, the Fresno Pacific Sunbirds headed out on the road again and brought down the Menlo Oaks Thursday evening 3-1 in Haynes Prim Pavilion. 

The Sunbirds opened the match with an aggressive start.

Madison Girnius and Makayla Smith established an early rhythm, each contributing key kills that set the tone for Fresno Pacific.

Cambria Waites orchestrated the offense with precision, allowing the Sunbirds to hit a .222 attack percentage.

The Oaks had difficulty responding to Fresno Pacific's well-placed attacks and tough serves, resulting in multiple attack errors.

Fresno Pacific also controlled the net, with blocks by Claire Corippo and Geneva Elliott stifling Menlo's offensive efforts.

Despite a few service errors, the 'Birds closed out the set confidently at 25-18.

Set two was a fierce back-and-forth battle with 15 ties and 4 lead changes.

Menlo responded to their first-set loss by improving their attack finding ways to breach the Sunbirds' defense.

The Sunbirds kept up, however, with Waites continuing to spread the ball effectively across the front row.

Fresno Pacific scored 14 kills in this set, though they had six service errors that allowed the Oaks to stay close.

Both teams made crucial points down the stretch, but Menlo ultimately capitalized on a few Fresno Pacific misplays to edge out a 28-26 victory.

In a complete turnaround, the 'Birds dominated set three from start to finish.

The Sunbirds improved their attack efficiency to .313, racking up 11 kills and limiting their errors.

Girnius continued her strong performance, along with Smith, who led with efficient kills.

The 'Birds serving game was on point, delivering three service aces that forced the Oaks into poor receptions.

The Sunbirds' blocking line—anchored by Elliott and Corippo—was relentless, allowing only ten points for Menlo and securing the set with a powerful 25-10 finish.

The final set was highly contested, with both teams refusing to give ground.

The set featured 14 ties and 7 lead changes, underscoring the competitiveness on both sides.

Menlo surged with attacks, but the 'Birds defense responded well.

Smith once again led the offensive charge, and Amanda Lauer contributed timely points.

Fresno Pacific maintained a .294 hitting percentage, with critical plays from Waites and defensive digs from McKenna Hughes keeping them in contention.

The Sunbirds ultimately took advantage of Menlo's late errors, clinching the set 25-23 and sealing their match victory.

Fresno Pacific will head further north for a matchup tomorrow with the Dominican Penguins at 7pm in San Rafael. 
 

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