CALGARY – The University of Calgary Dinos bounced back nicely Friday night, getting back into the win column with an 80-minute, three-set win (25-21, 25-19, 25-22) over the Mount Royal University Cougars to open their weekend series at Kenyon Court.
Calgary improves to 17-4 on the year, while Mount Royal falls to 9-12 and, thanks to another upset win by MacEwan, sits outside the playoff race with three matches remaining.
"We played very consistently throughout the match," said Dinos Head Coach
Natalie Gurnsey. "Every player did her job and stuck with the game plan. Our offence was nicely spread out and our hitters took advantage and were very efficient. An all-around great performance."
Led by Canada West player of the year
Kate Pexman, the Dinos held the Cougars off throughout the night and hit an impressive 34.7 per cent over the three sets. Pexman's 13-kill performance led the way, with
Hannah Tanasichuk coming up big with 11 kills while
Beth Vinnell added nine.
Mount Royal's Dholi Thokbuom was the Cougars' leader with 11 kills as MRU managed to hit just .125 on the night. The Dinos owned a distinct advantage at the net, picking up 13 blocks against the Cougars' seven – with Vinnell and
Emma Kastelein leading the way with five each.
The crosstown rivals will face off once more Saturday night, with first serve set for 5 p.m. at Kenyon Court. Calgary returns home for a pair of matinees next weekend, closing out the regular season against the UBC Thunderbirds Feb. 15-16 in the Jack Simpson Gym.
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