WASHINGTON, D.C. – Helena Elbaek finished with 20 kills to lift American University to a five-set victory over Navy in a volleyball match between Patriot League leaders on Sunday.

The Eagles outlasted the Midshipmen, 25-19, 29-27, 26-24, 20-25, 15-8. AU improved to 8-9 overall and took over first place in the league with a 3-0 mark. The Mids fell to 11-6 and 3-1.

GAME NOTES

• Elbaek had six of her kills in a crucial third set that included 16 ties and eight lead changes. It marked the second time this season she finished with 20 kills, and the third time she's led the team offensively.

• AU libero Kristen Largay had 10 of her team-high 22 digs in that set.

• Aleksandra Kazala posted her fifth double-double of the season with 12 kills and 11 digs.

• Kennedy Etheridge also had a double-double with 43 assists and matched her career-high with 20 digs. Megan Crush chipped in with 12 digs off the bench for the Eagles.

• In the decisive fifth set, AU jumped to leads of 3-1, 5-2 and 10-4 before finishing off the match on a block by Jeanne Westney and Elbaek.

• Maddi Sgattoni led four Mids with double figures in kills, finishing with 16 points and 11 digs.

NEXT UP

American continues its homestand next weekend with a pair of Patriot League matches. Holy Cross comes to Bender Arena on Friday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. before the Eagles play host to Colgate on Saturday at 4 p.m.

TICKETS

Tickets to all AU volleyball matches at Bender Arena are available throughout the season.

• Bring a group of 10+ and save over 40 percent off your purchase, available at $3 per person
• Individual game tickets are available for $8 for adults, $5 for general admission, youth under 17 and seniors over 65. Military members, veterans and AU students are invited to join the Eagles for free admission with valid ID.
• CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS 
• For inquiries, e-mail clawed@american.edu or call 202.885.TIXX (8499).

For the latest on American University Volleyball, stay tuned to AUEagles.com and follow the team on Twitter @AU_Volleyball.