The McMaster Marauders swept the Waterloo Warriors in a swift three-set game at home on Friday night.
Leading the Marauders’ offense was third year outside hitter Sullie Sundara with a staggering eight service aces and 13 kills. Chayse Victoria supported the offense with 29 assists and a service ace. On defense, libero Christina Stratford made 14 digs, while Emma McKinnon had a strong offensive game with eight kills.
McMaster opened the game with the first three points, coming out strong on their offense. The home team held onto a strong lead until Waterloo fought back with six unanswered points, bringing the score to 9-8 for the Marauders. The teams took turns making point runs, with Sundara leading the Marauders on offense with an impressive five service aces and four kills. Late in the set, first year Olivia Julien made two kills, lighting up the bench. Ultimately, McMaster was able to hold off Waterloo’s offense and finished the set on top, 25-20.
The Warriors came out to challenge the Marauders in the second set, keeping the score close to start. Sundara made two more service aces, helping the Marauders with a strong 6-point run. Setter Victoria made a smart dump over the net to earn herself a kill mid set, lighting up the home crowd. McMaster battled hard in the long rallies, but the Warriors started to make their way back on the scoreboard. Despite this, McMaster held on, and a service ace from first year outside hitter Victoria Potvin late in the set brought the home team to set point. The Marauders were able to finish the set with a comfortable lead of 25-18.
The Warriors found momentum in the third set, gaining a four-point lead early in the set. The teams continued to exchange points, but McMaster was able to tie the score back up at the 12th point with a kill from Ellie Hatashita. The Marauders stayed strong on their serves throughout the game, with an ace from Sundara coming off a Waterloo timeout, followed by an ace from Julien. The Marauders ran with their momentum, distancing themselves on the scoreboard. McKinnon brought McMaster to set point, and Sundara finished off the game with a huge kill, leaving the score at 25-19.
Up Next
The Marauders earn themselves a two-game win streak and look forward to playing the York Lions tomorrow night in Toronto.