FULLERTON – The Hope International men's volleyball was edged in a five-set battle on Friday by Benedictine Mesa, falling 19-25, 43-41, 25-18, 24-26, 15-8 at Darling Pavilion.

Alessandro Spendolini had an incredible career-high 37 kills on .397 hitting to lead a spirited Royals effort. Jah'mi Jeter added 15 kills.

Sam D'Ambrosio handed out a career-best 56 assists as HIU hit .243 for the match.

Four Redhawks registered double-digit kills with Ethan Russel's 20 leading the way.

HIU returns to action on Saturday against Park Gilbert at 1:00 p.m.