(ST. JOHN’S, NL) The UNB REDS were able to take the second game of their weekend series at Memorial in straight sets on Saturday.
UNB won with scores of 25-17, 25-19, and 25-11.
“We did a much better job in preparation to play today,” said REDS head coach Richard Schick. “We’re starting to understand that we’re in control of the way that we play individually through our preparation and the decisions we make once the game starts.”
The first set opened with UNB taking an early lead, helped by a couple of kills and an ace from Heather Benko (Sechelt, BC).
Some clever tip-overs from Memorial setter Karen Greek (Mount Pearl, NL) kept the Sea-Hawks close.
After some tight play from both sides, the REDS were able to pull ahead late in the set, and some solid serving from Meghan Vaags (Abbotsford, BC) and good defense helped UNB win the first set with a score of 25-17.
The second set opened with more tight play from both sides, with Memorial keeping a slight edge over the REDS.
UNB was able to tip the scales back in their favour on a kill from Bailey Lemieux (Fredericton, NB) and midway through the set established a lead over the Sea-Hawks.
Benko had some good attacking play to help the REDS keep the lead, but two crucial kills by Lydia Grawer (St. Louis, MO) late in the set helped the Sea-Hawks stay alive.
Ultimately, UNB was able to win the second set 25-19.
The REDS came out strong in the third set, and were able to take an early lead, helped by solid serving by Lemieux, a block from setter Paige Lehto (North Vancouver, BC) and a kill from Isla Olesen (Calgary, AB).
Some strong serving from Memorial’s Nella Woelfel (St. John’s, NL) kept MUN in the game. In the end, UNB was able to stay strong on both offense and defense, with notable kills by Kindigo Watson (Calgary, AB) and Benko pushing UNB to victory, 25-11.
“Our all-around game was a lot more solid in every aspect, from serve receive, defensively, attacking and blocking,” said Coach Schick. “We were a lot more in control of our side of the net, which was good for our group to see and realize.”
REDS’ libero Katelyn Chapman played a very strong defensive game was named the Subway Player of the Game.
“The difference between last night and today was in our individual performances,” said Chapman. “We worked together as a team, and I think we found better connections all around today.”
The teams conclude their weekend series on Sunday. First serve is scheduled for 11:30am Atlantic.
“We need to take some time to reflect on what we can improve upon,” said Chapman. “We need to watch some video, take care of our bodies, and come with a steady game plan tomorrow.”
RECAP BY: Olivia Ryan/for MUN Athletics
PHOTOS BY: Udantha Chandraratne/for UNB Athletics