WICHITA, Kan. -- The Friends University Falcons extended their winning streak with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Baker University last night (Aug. 30). The Falcons, energized by another infectious home crowd, overcame adversity to secure the win in a hard-fought five-set match.

The Falcons surged ahead early in set one, taking an 11-4 lead, thanks to a series of powerful kills by Sydney Lentz and two aces from Sofia Mekelburg. The Falcons finish the set 25-21 with the first victory of the match. 

Despite facing adversity in set two and battling through a tight third set, the Falcons rallied with a crucial 5-0 run after trailing 18-12 in the forth set.
 
An ace from Anicia Tyson-Salas and a kill by Sofia Mekelburg were pivotal moments in the comeback, followed by two incredible digs from both athletes to keep the ball in play, allowing them to take the lead for the first time in the fourth set. 

The fourth set closes with a strong kill by Zoe Grolnic and an error by Baker University, resulting in Falcon win 25-23 and sets tied 2-2. 

In a nail-biting set five, with the score locked at 10-10, Rayne Bossier stepped up with a game-changing ace and a series of decisive blocks by the Friends front row, driving the Falcons to match point. In the last point of the game. Gabrielle Murphy executed a jaw-dropping dig to keep the ball in play, setting the stage for Gabriella Lujan's electrifying kill that no one could handle, clinching the thrilling victory.

"Awesome wins tonight by both our varsity reserve and varsity programs," said Friends volleyball head coach Martin Ayin. "Baker is a strong program and we knew we had to contain their offense in the pins. A lot of heart and endurance was shown by our team grinding out both wins in five games. Thank you to all the family, friends and fans who stuck it out for over five hours of volleyball tonight!"

The Falcons conclude their three-game homestand with a victory and will be back in action Friday, September 6th against Evangel University in Springfield, Mo. to open KCAC action.