By Carly McKay
It was a rough home opener for the Dinos men’s volleyball squad Nov. 12-13. Hosting the University of Alberta Golden Bears, our men were looking to improve upon their 1-1 record in front of the fans packed into the Red Gym.
Friday night, a closely fought first set went the Bears’ way 26-24, but after leading 16-15 at the technical break in the second, the Dinos held on for the victory 25-22. Again holding a narrow edge in the third, the Dinos matched the Bears point for point until a service ace from Nicholas Cundy sealed up a 25-23 win for U of A. The deciding set also went to the Bears, 25-22. Although the result was not what the Dinos hoped for, the fans were treated to some exciting play, including Rob Ellis’ five service aces and an incredible 20 kills from Eric von Engelbrechten.
Saturday’s match proved challenging for the home squad again, as the U of A cruised to a weekend sweep. The opening set was close, with the victory coming by a narrow 25-22 margin. With the momentum carrying into the second, the Bears drew ahead 16-10 at the technical break and out scored Calgary 9-6 in the latter half, ensuring a 25-16 win. Early third set action was close, but the Bears’ 37 per cent kill efficiency proved too much for the Dinos defense, allowing the visiting team to take the match with a 25-21 decision.
“Our biggest downfall was our passing and serving,” said setter Paul Albert. “That’s the biggest part of volleyball in Canada West right now.”
With the majority of the season yet to come, the Dinos are confident that the team will come together when it really counts, noting that their first two opponents–the Trinity Western University Spartans and the Bears–have been the first and second ranked teams.
“It’ll get better,” promised Albert. “We expect two wins this coming weekend.”
The Dinos travel to the University of British Columbia Nov. 19-20.