(HALIFAX, N.S.) - The UNB Varsity Reds took game one of the 2016 Subway AUS Men's Volleyball Championship series by a score of 3-0 over the host Dalhousie Tigers. They now lead the best-of-three series 1-0.
Before the start of the game, the Tigers honoured their graduating players with a gift to thank them for their time with the Tigers. The players honoured were fifth-year players Jonathan MacDonald, Justin Lynch and Connor Maessen, as well as fourth-year player Logan Baillie.
The first quarter was very close and featured some great rallies. The capacity crowd in the Dalplex was treated to some great volleyball action. At the technical timeouts, the Varsity Reds were ahead 16-13. The Reds would use a block from Samuel Alves and a service rally from Matthew Losier to take the opening set 25-21.
UNB continued their strong play into the second set. After a tight contest early in the set, UNB held a 10-8 lead. The Varsity Reds used their momentum to open up a 20-12 lead and easily take the second set 25-15.
The Tigers found themselves down 7-3 early in the third set. UNB opened their lead to 16-8 at the technical timeout.
With their backs against the wall, the Tigers fought back to bring the score to 23-18 and then had all the momentum late in the set.
Kristen O'Brien, Matthew Donovan and Connor Maessen were a strong trio for the Tigers and helped bring their team within one point, 24-23. However a powerful kill from Tristen Burridge would end the Tigers' comeback.
The Varsity Reds would win the set 26-24 and take Game 1 of the 2016 Subway AUS Men's Volleyball Championship 3-0.
Kristen O'Brien was named Subway player of the game for the Tigers. Elvind Anderson earned the honour for the Varsity Reds.
Game 2 will take place at UNB next Saturday Feb. 27 at 2 p.m.
Source: Dalhousie Sports Communications