This Friday evening, the Waterloo Warriors hosted the RMC Paladins, bringing volleyball action back to Carl Totzke Court. The Warriors secured a dominant win in three sets (25-13, 25-23, 25-17).
The match kicked off with the Warriors claiming the first point, though RMC quickly evened the score at 1-1. The Warriors then found their rhythm, going on a five-point run to take a 6-1 advantage. Daniel Nikashov (Vaughan) attacked with consistent serving, including several service aces, which kept the Warriors in control. With commanding play throughout the set, the Warriors closed out the first set 25-13.
The second set was tightly contested from the start, with both teams exchanging points early on. At 8-5, the Warriors pulled ahead, but RMC responded with a run to tie it at 8-8. The set remained balanced through the mid section. The Warriors locked in as, Liam MacArthur (Cambridge) secured back to back aces providing a crucial lead nearing the final plays of the set. The Warriors held on to win the second set 25-23.
RMC came out strong in the third set, quickly taking the first three points. However, the Warriors regained momentum thanks to a spectacular string of three consecutive aces by Cohen Peters (Vancouver). Nikashov then matched Peters with three aces of his own, pushing the Warriors to a 25-17 set victory and a clean sweep in the match.
The Warriors will look to repeat their success as they face the Paladins again tomorrow at 4:00 p.m.