RECAP: Women’s volleyball falls 3-2 in season opening thriller in Montreal

The Gee-Gees forced the Carabins to a fifth set in their season opener in Montreal. Ultimately falling 3-2, the final two sets went down to the wire.

“Unbelievable first match,” said Ottawa head coach, Lionel Woods. “This match gave us the chance to build confidence and toughness and move on to next weekend knowing we are in this fight for a playoff run.”

In the opening set, Ottawa was first on the board when Audrey Odigie set the tone with a quick kill. Montreal eventually pulled away, taking the set 25-15.

The second set began at a similar pace to the first, but the momentum had flipped, and Janae McKay went on serving run to secure the 25-16 win in the second set.

The third went in favour of Montreal, but the fourth set brought out long rallies and incredible intensity from both sides. The Gee-Gees were in a must-win scenario and came back from a five-point deficit to take the set 25-13 and force a fifth and final set.

The teams were never separated by more than two points either way in the final set. Tied at 13-13, it was the Carabins who put together the last two points to earn the win.

Despite the loss to start the season, the Gee-Gees proved that they’re a competitive force. 

Odigie led the way with 22 kills for the Gee-Gees and McKay followed with seven kills and four service aces. Setter, Maxim Langevin, earned 38 assists.

The Gee-Gees have their home opening weekend on Oct. 21 and 22. They start by welcoming Laval to Montpetit Hall on Saturday, and UQTR on Sunday. Both games start at 1 p.m. Tickets are available at https://teams.geegees.ca/tickets.