IRVINE, Calif. - It was a reverse sweep for the Fresno Pacific Sunbirds as they won in another 3-2 thriller Saturday afternoon against the Concordia University-Irvine in CU Arena to start conference 2-0 and extend their three match win streak. 

The Golden Eagles started strong, taking control early in the set.

The Sunbirds struggled with attack errors, and despite a few kills from players like Claire Corippo and Madison Girnius, CUI's blocking and offensive pressure were too much. CUI closed out the first set 25-16. 

In set two, both teams traded points early. Kills from Mia Gilcrest and Makayla Smith kept the Sunbirds in the set. 

However, the Golden Eagles again capitalized on several errors from the 'Birds to pull away, securing the set 25-20.

Fresno Pacific turned the match around in a closely contested third set. Gilcrest and Smith were pivotal, providing key kills at key moments. 

Facing a match point, the Sunbirds were able to fend it off and retake the lead to edge out the Golden Eagles to take the third set 26-24 to stay alive in the match.

The Sunbirds built on their momentum in the fourth set. Geneva Elliott and Gilcrest led the offensive surge, while the team's defense, anchored by Cambria Waites and Claire Corippo, stifled CUI's attacks.

With the fourth set win, Fresno Pacific tied the match at two sets apiece, winning 25-17.

The final set was all Fresno Pacific. Riding their momentum, the Sunbirds dominated CUI, jumping out to an early lead and never looking back.

Gilcrest and Smith continued to deliver key kills, while Waites set up her teammates effectively

Fresno Pacific finished the set 15-8, completing the reverse comeback to win the match 3-2.

GIlcrest finished the match with a career high 25 kills to lead the Sunbirds. 

The Sunbirds also displayed their stellar defense yet again with 15 blocks. 

"It was a great team effort all the way around" said Head Coach Kelsee Montagna. "Even though we started off slow, we battled and remembered that we are a good team, we needed to settle back in to doing what we are good at and believing in ourselves." 

Fresno Pacific will hit the road again for another PacWest conference matchup against new conference member, Jessup, this Thursday at 6pm in Rocklin.

"They all show such perseverance and resiliency, this team earned both these wins on the road!" 

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