IRVINE, Calif. – The Cal State Dominguez Hills women's volleyball team fall in a tightly contested five-set match to Alaska Fairbanks, with the Nanooks emerging victorious 3-2 (25-20, 23-25, 18-25, 25-17, 12-15) in a non-conference showdown. 

The Toros started strong, taking the first set 25-20 behind 13 kills and a hitting percentage of .182. However, Alaska Fairbanks responded with a dominant second set, hitting .457 as they secured a narrow 25-23 win.

Despite an improved defensive effort, the Toros struggled offensively in the third set, managing just 8 kills and a .056 hitting percentage. The Nanooks capitalized with 15 kills, taking the set 25-18 to pull ahead 2-1.

The Toros rallied in the fourth set, hitting .296 with 10 kills while limiting Alaska Fairbanks to a .100 hitting percentage, forcing a deciding fifth set after winning 25-17.

In the final set, Alaska Fairbanks held a slim advantage, hitting .238 to edge the Toros 15-12, sealing the match. Cal State Dominguez Hills finished the match with 49 kills and a .180 hitting percentage, while the Nanooks posted 62 kills and hit .224.

Senior Kayly Pau led the Toros offensively with 12 kills and 3 aces, while Ava Hurry contributed 11 kills in the effort. Junior Bailey Fuches was pivotal both offensively and defensively, tallying 24 assists, 5 service aces, and 13 digs. Nina Robles anchored the defense with 14 digs and added 2 service aces, while Camryn Perdue made her presence felt at the net with 5 blocks and 6 kills.

 "Unfortunately, we didn't get the result we were looking for today, but it was a great day one for the Toros.  We showed grit and determination and are ready to take on APU tomorrow night." Head Coach Teddi Esko with words after dropping the match 3-2 in a thriller to began the 2024 season for the Toros.

The Toros will look to bounce back in their next match as they will face Azusa Pacific on the road tomorrow night at 5pm.