SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Friends University Falcons took the first set at KCAC unbeaten Evangel University, but the Valor rebounded to win in four sets tonight in Springfield, Mo. by scores of 26-24, 14-25, 14-25, 12-25. The Falcons' attack was led by 37 kills, but the Valor's efficiency proved decisive with a .279 hitting percentage.

The first set opened with Friends taking an early lead, capitalizing on an attack error by Evangel's Vivianna Sanchez. The Falcons maintained a slight edge through key kills by Sofia Mekelburg and Maddy Hildebrand, both assisted by Randi Reid. The Valor fought back to level the score, but Friends responded with consecutive points, including a pivotal kill by Maysen Bruschke and an error by Evangel's Cienna Turner.

As the set progressed, Evangel gained momentum, reaching a 19-13 lead. However, Friends initiated a comeback with Mekelburg and Natalie Castillo leading a series of successful plays, including a service ace and crucial blocks. Friends ultimately completed their comeback to win 26-24 and take the lead in the match 

Friends began the second set with momentum, quickly securing a 2-0 lead with Hildebrand's kill and a successful block by Hildebrand and Castillo. Despite this strong start, Evangel responded, tying the score at 2-2 and later at 4-4, as both teams exchanged points. Gabbie Taylor and Mekelburg each contributed crucial kills, keeping Friends competitive at 10-10 midway through the set.

However, Evangel gained control and extended their lead to 17-12 following a timeout called by Friends. Despite Jayde Gonzalez's kill narrowing the gap to 17-13, Evangel maintained their advantage. Friends struggled to close the deficit, ultimately ending the set with a 25-14 loss.

Friends made a strong push early in the third set, highlighted by Hildebrand's kill at 2-2, assisted by Reid, which initiated a brief lead as Friends advanced to 4-2. This momentum was continued by Mekelburg's service ace. Evangel responded effectively and launched a decisive run, moving the score to 11-8 in their favor, prompting a Friends timeout.

Despite efforts to regain control, including another kill by Hildebrand late in the set, Friends struggled to contain Evangel's offensive surge. Evangel closed the set again 25-14 to jump ahead 2-1. 

Friends faced a challenging fourth set as Evangel surged ahead early with a series of service and attack points, establishing a 5-1 lead. However, Friends responded with a strong sequence, highlighted by kills from Castillo and Taylor, closing the gap to 5-4.

Despite Friends' efforts to regain momentum, including another key kill by Taylor assisted by Emma Sargeant, Evangel extended their advantage through consistent offensive plays. The set concluded with Evangel winning 25-12 to finish out the win.

Reid contributed 23 assists, with Taylor and Hildebrand each tallying nine kills to lead the Falcons. Mekelburg added to the team's effort with six kills and two service aces. Tammy Melendez had a team-leading 13 digs for Friends. 

Sharayah Seymour led the Valor with 14 kills and Kenna Wise provided a team-high 15 digs.  Charlotte Hawkins was effective at the net, recording five total blocks to complement her seven kills. Jessica Pritchett facilitated the attack with 29 assists for Evangel. 

The Falcons will next play a key KCAC matchup at Tabor College Saturday afternoon (Oct. 25) starting at 1 pm in Hillsboro, Kan.