HAMBURG, N.Y. – Hilbert Men's Volleyball battled point-for-point with AMCC rival Houghton University tonight night inside the Hafner Recreation Center, but it was the visiting Highlanders who escaped with a 3-2 victory (25-21, 18-25, 25-21, 23-25, 15-8).

Though the fifth set ultimately went to the visitors, the match featured strong play on both sides of the net with a competitive fire that featured high-level rallies from start to finish. The enthusiastic fan support throughout the night elevated the intensity and excitement, providing a postseason-like feel as both teams delivered a thrilling five-set battle.

After dropping a competitive opening set, Hilbert responded with poise in the second, evening the match behind steady offense and disciplined defense. The teams continued to trade momentum throughout the night, with neither side backing down. Houghton hit an efficient .263 in the third set to regain the advantage, but the Hawks answered once again in the fourth. Trailing late, Hilbert strung together key points to force a decisive fifth set, igniting the home crowd and injecting even more energy into the gym.

Individually, Nikolas D'Andrea led the Hawks with 17 kills, while Justin Veal added 15 kills and two service aces. Mehkai Francis orchestrated the offense with 37 assists, and Jacob Sehn anchored the back row with an impressive 25 digs. Austin Thurlow contributed at the net with five blocks as Hilbert totaled eight team blocks on the night.

Houghton countered with a balanced attack, highlighted by Jonah Sissel's 15 kills and 43 assists from Jerry Buno, who also added 23 digs in an all-around performance.

Hilbert (2-9, 1-1 AMCC) returns to the Hafner Center this weekend to host three consecutive matches with Hartwick College and SUNY Potsdam.  The Hawks will face Hartwick in the 12 pm match and end the afternoon against the Bears at 4 pm.