Vydykhan leds Tigers to win over REDS

The Dalhousie Tigers beat the UNB REDS 3-1 (25-17, 25-23, 19-25, 25-20) in the second game of their weekend series on Saturday.

The Tigers opened the first set with a four point run. The REDS were able to turn it around late in the first, thanks in part to a string of Dalhousie errors. Annik Boldon (Fredericton, NB) was able to get a rotation for the Tigers and send Kirsty Longino (Calgary, AB) to the line. Longino would serve out the rest of the set, going on a five point run. Talia Vydykhan (Hammonds Plains< NS) led the Tigers with six kills in the first set. Dalhousie took the first set 25-17.

Dalhousie continued the run into the second set, taking seven of the first eight points. UNB's Isla Olesen (Calgary, AB) got a kill to send Sonya Nielsen (Morrin, AB) to the line sparking a run of their own, eventually taking the lead 12-11. The two teams exchanged points through the middle of the set, but Dalhousie was able to outlast the REDS and take the set 25-23.

A very close third set was highlighted by great serving from both teams. The REDS led by Heather Benko's (Sechelt, BC) serving, were able to stifle the Tigers attack, winning the third set 25-19.

The close play continued in the fourth frame, but several errors late in the set game the Tigers a 25-20 set win and handing them a 3-1 win. The Tigers extend their record to 2-0 this season while the REDS fall to 0-2.

Vydykhan was named the player of the game for recording a game high 20 kills. Lydia Green (Bedford, NS) was the player of the game for the REDS.

Dalhousie hits the road next weekend for a two game stand versus Moncton. The first game is set for 7pm on Friday.  

UNB returns home for a two game series versus Saint Mary's. They play Friday night at 8pm.