SIOUX CITY, Iowa – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Ariz.) volleyball played No. 11 Marian University at the 2019 NAIA Volleyball National Championship Presented by Delta Hotels on Tuesday. Erin Clark (JR/Phoenix, Ariz.) led all attackers with 18 kills but was not able to lead the Eagles (28-6) past the Knights (32-2), 25-15, 29-27, 25-20.

ERAU had plenty of chances to get ahead early on but mistakes kept the Knights in control. There were 11 errors made by the Eagles compared to the Knights 3. MU were incredibly resilient on defense, stifling multiple attempts by the Eagles. Marian attacked at .238 and killed 13 in the set, winning by 10 points.

The second set was by far the most competitive as both squads knew that this was the most pivotal. After falling behind early, Clark powered the Eagles comeback into the lead with multiple kills. Despite Clark's tremendous performance the Eagles, committed eight errors and Marian hung around long enough to steal the set. After Elisa Pauzer (JR/Campinas, Brazil) got the Eagles a lead at 27-26 the Knights rallied to win the next three points and the set.

ERAU and MU continued their battle into the third set but the Eagles could not manage to limit their errors. Once again MU hit at .250+ allowing them to secure the third set. ERAU had a chance to tie it at 16 after Caylee Robalin (JR/El Paso, Texas) brought the Eagles to within one. That would be the closest they would get before the match was ended.

Robalin and Pauzer both killed 11 in the set. Audrey Baldwin (SR/Santa Barbara, Calif.) balled out once again. As the main setter in the 5-1 system, she accumulated 40 assists in the match.

ERAU will play No. 6 Viterbo University on Wednesday at 2:00 pm CST with their season on the line.