REDS Push Vert et Or To Five Sets
(SHERBROOKE, QC) The UNB REDS pushed the country's No. 2 ranked Sherbrooke Vert et Or to a deciding set on Saturday, falling 3-2 in dramatic fashion.
Sherbrooke completed the sweep of their weekend RSEQ series with scores of 25-22, 16-25, 30-28, 17-25, and 15-12.
"Friday night we had opportunities in each set, but weren't able to capitalize in key moments," said REDS' head coach Dan McMorran. "Today we did a much better job both offensively and defensively, which consequently put more pressure on them."
Eduardo Luchese led the REDS with a game-high 26 kills.
Lex Guimond contributed 10 kills and seven blocks, Holden Cadden registered 10 kills and nine digs, Scott Mann had 17 digs, and Lucas Maffia had nine digs and a game-high 59 assists.
"They're a very good team and it's an uncomfortable environment in their gym," said Coach McMorran. "But that gave us excellent experience. To get to compete in a playoff type atmosphere early in the season and with a lot of guys making contributions is good."
Gregoire Mercier-Noel led the Vert et Or's balanced attack with 18 kills while Jeremie Rainville contributed 10 digs.
"Certainly, we're disappointed we didn't come away with at least a split, but I'm encouraged with our progress," added McMorran.
The REDS, 4-and-4, now enter the U SPORTS mid-season break.
They're next action will be January 10th, in Montreal.
Sherbrooke improves to 6-and-0 with two matches remaining before their break starts.
RECAP BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics
FILE PHOTO: James West/for UNB Athletics