It was a true heart breaker on Friday night as the Oakland women’s volleyball team lost in the fifth set to Cleveland State in front of a family night crowd of 398.

The loss moves Oakland’s Horizon League record to 3-2, solidly in third place behind CSU (4-0) and Valparaiso (4-1).

Oakland’s struggles early in matches continued against the Vikings, losing the first two sets 25-19 and 25-22.

Oakland came out from halftime with a different look. They captured a very competitive third set 26-24 followed by a 25-23 victory in the fourth set.

“They don’t like to lose, they have a reserve of competitiveness when they’re back is against the wall,” Oakland head coach Rob Beam said.

The deciding fifth set saw Cleveland State take a quick lead. Oakland remained close throughout the set but ultimately the Vikings were able to take it 15-13.

“This year, we’ve just come up short, we’re basically four points away from being undefeated in the Horizon League,” Beam said.

Melissa Deatsch continued her dominant play recording 24 kills and 12 digs on the evening.

Beam had strong praise for her performance.

“Melissa Deatsch was outstanding, she put up great kill numbers but she’s also a great defensive player,” he said.

Oakland will play Youngstown State tomorrow afternoon in the annual pink-out game. Serve time is set for 4:30 p.m.