In front of a sold-out crowd at SimpliFi Arena, the No. 4 University of Hawai‘i men’s volleyball team dropped a four-set battle to top-ranked Long Beach State on Friday night. Set scores were 21-25, 18-25, 25-18, 21-25.

The Rainbow Warriors (22-4, 5-2 Big West) were without leading scorer Kristian Titriyski due to injury, but freshman Finn Kearney stepped up with 17 kills and three blocks. Adrien Roure added 12 kills, while Louis Sakanoko chipped in 11. Setter Tread Rosenthal posted his first double-double of the season with 40 assists and 13 digs.

Despite a strong third-set win and leading for much of the fourth, UH couldn’t hold off a late Long Beach rally. The Beach (24-1, 6-1) closed the match with a 7-1 run.

The loss gives Long Beach sole possession of first place in the Big West. Saturday’s rematch, also sold out, will be followed by Senior Night celebrations for five Rainbow Warriors. First serve is set for 7:00 p.m.

Photos: Garin Paguio