By TOM ZEBOLD

USF Senior Writer

ORLANDO, OCT. 29, 2014 – The Bulls roared back from a two-set deficit before they were edged in a five-set thriller at UCF on Wednesday night.

American Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Week Erin Fairs led the impressive comeback attempt with 27 kills and 11 digs in USF's 19-25, 19-25, 25-21, 26-24, 8-15 loss. Dakota Hampton also posted a double-double with 10 kills and 10 digs for the Bulls (9-14, 3-8).

UCF (18-5, 11-0) extended its winning streak to 11 matches behind a 22-kill performance by Jale Hervey. The Knights are receiving votes in the AVCA Top 25 Poll and improved to 9-1 at home this season.

USF took UCF to four sets in the programs' first meeting of the season and the Bulls turned in an all-around team performance in Wednesday's rematch. Senior Jennica Mullins posted a match-high eight blocks to go along with five kills. Alex Mendoza registered 26 assists and six digs, while Natalia Soares added 22 assists and eight digs.

The Bulls return to the Corral to host East Carolina on Sunday at 11 a.m. and fans can purchase tickets HERE. Immediately following the match, all kids middle-school-aged and younger are invited to participate in a free one-hour volleyball skills clinic with the USF players and coaches, on the court.