CALGARY — The University of Calgary Dinos men’s volleyball team claimed a 3-1 victory over the Mount Royal University Cougars on Friday evening, winning 25-20, 19-25, 25-19, 25-19. The win highlighted the Dinos’ depth and offensive power as they bounced back after dropping the second set to take control and win the match in four.
Louis Kunstmann led the charge for Calgary, finishing with 11 kills and playing a pivotal role in the team’s attack. Tyler Funk also had a strong all-around performance, contributing eight kills and eight digs and helping to keep the Cougars’ offense in check throughout the match.
The Dinos came out firing in the first set, with Funk opening the scoring with the first kill. Calgary quickly established a 13-6 lead in kills and maintained pressure on MRU with a solid defensive effort, totaling four blocks. The Dinos took the first set 25-20, hitting at a strong clip and setting the tone early.
MRU responded in the second set, taking advantage of a few unforced errors from Calgary and capitalizing on their own offensive efficiency. Despite a solid start, the Cougars outpaced Calgary with 15 kills to the Dinos’ eight. The Cougars won the set 25-19, tying the match at 1-1 and shifting the momentum in their favour.
In the third, Calgary regained control. Both teams were tied 9-9 in kills at one point, but the Dinos’ offensive variety ultimately proved to be the difference. With contributions from all players, including a clutch kill from Jackson Meier, Calgary hit .280 for the frame and closed out the set 25-19 to take a 2-1 lead in the match.
The Dinos carried that momentum into the fourth set, where they finished strong. Despite a solid hitting percentage of .217, it was Calgary’s well-rounded team effort that gave them the edge. The Cougars had no answer for the Dinos’ offensive power, and Calgary sealed the match with another 25-19 win.
Setter Zach Durrant played a key role in orchestrating the offense, distributing the ball effectively to set up every hitter for success.
“Our players’ variety has been amazing this season, and I trust every one of our hitters,” Durrant said after the match. “The game plan was to bring lots of energy, and we did that on and off the court tonight.”
The two teams are right back at it Saturday at 4 p.m.
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