In a matchup reminiscent of their previous encounter just 24 hours prior, the York University Lions women’s volleyball team once again pulled off a 3-1 triumph over the Trent Excalibur in the second half of the two-game series Saturday night at the Tait McKenzie Center.
The opening set got underway in a tight back-and-forth rally, with both teams keeping the game within points reach. However, the Excalibur encountered setbacks due to attack errors, allowing the Lions to capitalize and establish an 11-7 lead. Building on this advantage, the Lions maintained their momentum, preventing any opportunity for the visitors to mount a comeback. The Lions secured the set 25-17 with a kill from Madison Shanks. Alisa Trubyuk led the way with five kills in the set.
In the second set, the gameplay mirrored the intensity of the first, with both teams deadlocked at 9-9. However, the visitors seized control with a decisive run, establishing an 18-13 lead midway through the set and forcing a timeout from the Lions bench. Despite their efforts, the Lions struggled to solve the Excalibur, falling short 19-25.
The Lions stormed to the court with renewed energy, firing on all cylinders to grab a commanding 17-5 advantage. An advantage that set the tone for the rest of the set, as the Lions never looked back, dominating the third set 25-11.
The fourth set began with a burst of energy from Amarai Endes, whose powerful spike ignited the Lions squad, propelling them to a commanding 20-14 lead. Despite the visitors’ efforts to stay within striking distance, the Lions maintained their composure closing out the set with a decisive 25-17 victory. The set victory sealed the 3-1 game for the Lions.
LOOKING AHEAD:
The Lions will look to keep their winning streak alive as they hit the road for a four-game road trip, with the first stop in Kingston, Ont. The Lions will face off against the RMC Paladins in a doubleheader weekend kicking off on Friday, Feb. 2 at 6:00 pm.