The all-time series between the York University Lions men’s volleyball team and the Trent Excalibur has been a one-sided spectacle of late, and Friday night was no different. With its 3-0 (25-21, 25-19, 25-16) victory over Trent, the Lions now own a 12-game winning streak over the Excalibur, that traces back to Nov. 19, 2016.
Dennis Cota led the way with an impressive 12-kill performance, while setter Jasraj Nijjar delivered 32 assists. This dynamic duo, among others, played pivotal roles as the Lions secured their third victory of the season in straight sets at the Tait McKenzie Centre.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
The opening set was extremely tight, with neither side taking firm control. With the Lions holding a 21-16 edge, the Excalibur went on a 5-1 run, closing the gap to 22-21. However, an ace from Cota and a kill from Jordan Gazzola allowed the Lions to secure the set win, 25-21.
At a 5-5 deadlock in the second, the Lions orchestrated an 8-3 surge, propelling them to a 13-8 lead and forcing a timeout from Trent. From thereon, the visitors struggled to keep up with the Lions pace, ultimately falling short 25-19. Nijjar played a pivotal role, posting 11 of his 32 assists in the middle set.
York took charge of the third set early, taking leads of 3-0 and 9-3. Despite a pushback from Trent that brought the score to 15-12, the Lions maintained their composure and, thus, the lead. Ultimately, they clinched the set 25-16 and, with it, the match 3-0, with a kill from Noah Halladay on match point.
LOOKING AHEAD:
The Lions won’t have to wait long to tryy and extend their winning streak, as they return to the court tomorrow, Saturday, Jan. 27, against these same Excalibur in the second leg of the doubleheader at the Tait McKenzie Centre. The first serve is set to fly at 8:00 pm
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