Embry-Riddle put up a fierce fight in a five-set thriller against Hope International University on Saturday afternoon, ultimately falling 3-2 (25-19, 17-25, 22-25, 25-20, 12-15).

The Eagles (7-7, 1-2 GSAC) came out strong in the opening set, using a balanced attack and solid defense to secure a 25-19 win. However, Hope International (5-4, 1-1 GSAC) responded with a dominant second set, hitting .244 and holding Embry-Riddle to just six kills.

Despite trailing 2-1 after three sets, the Eagles showed resilience in the fourth, rallying behind standout performances from Emma Barber and Brooke Eglinton to force a decisive fifth set. Barber led the team with 12 kills and 19 digs, while Eglinton added 10 kills and four digs.

Setter Alice Tuci orchestrated the offense with 36 assists and contributed defensively with 12 digs. Libero Alexis Creager anchored the back row with a team-high 17 digs and chipped in two service aces.

The fifth set saw both teams trading points early, but Hope International pulled away late to clinch the match 15-12. Despite the loss, Embry-Riddle showed grit and depth, with nine players recording kills and five players tallying double-digit digs.

Embry-Riddle will play again on Saturday, September 20th in Prescott as the Eagles host Arizona Christian for a 2pm first serve.