COSTA MESA, Calif. —  Azusa Pacific battled through a competitive four-set contest at the Freed Center for Leadership and Service on Saturday, but the Cougars came up short in a 3–1 (19–25, 19–25, 25–23, 13–25) loss to Vanguard. Despite a strong third-set rally and solid offensive balance, APU couldn't overcome the Lions' efficient attack and blocking presence.

Vanguard established early control behind its serving and net defense, taking the opening set 25–19. Flora Sebestyen and Katelyn Sonnier each tallied early kills, and Trinitee Carroll spread the ball efficiently, but a late Lion run gave the home side the edge.

In the second frame, APU fell behind early and was unable to recover as Vanguard hit .324 with two aces in the set. It struggled to find rhythm offensively, managing just a .158 clip in the frame.

The Cougars' response came in the third, when Sebestyen and Amanda Albertini powered the attack at the net. Azusa Pacific hit a match-best .206 and converted key sideouts late to take the set 25–23, trimming the Lions' lead to 2–1.  Jackie Winfield added timely kills down the stretch, while Mia Medrano anchored the defense with four digs.

However, Vanguard regained control in the fourth, using its size at the net to close out the match 25–13. Despite the setback, the Cougars showed flashes of offensive rhythm and defensive resilience throughout the game.
 

Looking Ahead

Azusa Pacific will continue its Southern California road swing, facing Westmont in a PacWest conference matchup before returning home to the Felix Event Center for the next stretch of League play.