Tigers Open SF With W

(HALIFAX, NS) The UNB REDS fell in straight sets to the Dalhousie Tigers in game one of their best-of-three Atlantic University Sports semi-final, Thursday evening.

“It seemed like the moment was pretty big for us,” said UNB head coach Richard Schick. “I thought they [Dalhousie] came out very hungry and aggressive. They played very efficiently as they always do, and we just weren’t hungry enough.”

The REDS lost with scores of 25-14, 25-13, and 25-23.

Dal got out to a quick start, taking the first set with ease 25-14. UNB managed to bring the set within six points in the middle of the set, but were unable to stifle a strong Tigers attack that went on a 6-1 run to close out the set.

In set two the Tigers continued their dominance, jumping out to a 13-0 lead.

The REDS were able to claw back, bringing it to 17-10, but a strong 8-3 Dal run ended it 25-13.

The REDS were able to build some momentum in the third set, going on a 6-2 run to open the frame. The Tigers responded, tying the set 10-10. The teams traded points in a tight set before the Tigers would eventually finish off UNB 25-23. 

“It’s not surprising for us that we can get to that level,” said Schick. “It just comes down to finishing. We’ve been there before, we just haven’t pushed through in the end as much as we would’ve liked.” 

Dalhousie led in the categories of points (75-50), kills (48-25), aces (11-1), assists (44-25), and digs (57-43).

Lydia Green (Bedford, NS) and Heather Benko (Sechelt, BC) led the way for the REDS with six kills each. Green was named Subway Player of the Game for UNB, adding seven digs.

Paige Lehto (North Vancouver, BC) contributed with 20 of UNB’s 25 assists on the night, while Katelyn Chapman (Indian Mountain, NB) led the team defensively with 11 digs.

The REDS will have to regroup quickly, as game two of the AUS semi-final goes Friday at 7:00pm, at the DalPlex, in Halifax.

RECAP BY: Evan Richtsfeld/UNB Athletics

PHOTOS BY: Terrel Beals/for Dal Athletics