Ottawa, Ont - The Algonquin Wolves women's volleyball team extended their winning streak to three games on Wednesday night, defeating the La Cité Coyotes in straight sets, 3–0.
The Wolves jumped out to an early 12–8 lead in the opening set thanks to a strong net-front presence that made it difficult for the Coyotes to generate any sustained offense. La Cité struggled from the service line, and Algonquin took full advantage, extending the lead to 20–10, capped off by a big kill from Cambria Alford. The Wolves went on to close out the set 25–17.
The second set was much more contested, as La Cité cleaned up their unforced errors and the two teams traded points deep into the frame. With Algonquin holding a slim 20–19 lead, Riley Lancia delivered a clutch ace to give the Wolves some breathing room. The Coyotes responded and took a 23–22 lead after a kill from the middle. However, an attacking error tied the set at 23, and after a crafty setter dump from Gabbie Paquette, the Wolves found themselves serving for the set. Another unforced error from La Cité sealed the frame, as Algonquin took the set 25–23 and a commanding 2–0 lead in the match.
La Cité clawed their way to a 17–14 lead late in the third set and appeared poised to extend the match. The Wolves had other plans. After a big block in the middle from Lancia, Algonquin began to swing the momentum back in their favour. Jillian Dawson, making her return to action after being sidelined for a portion of the season, delivered back-to-back aces to tie the set at 17. With the momentum firmly on their side, the Wolves pulled away and closed out the set 25–20 to complete the sweep.
It was a complete team performance, with contributions coming from all over the lineup:
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Mysha Janif recorded a career-high 16 assists
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Carys Tenthorey finished with 5 kills and 3 aces
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Cambria Alford added 5 kills
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Riley Lancia chipped in 5 kills, 1 block, and 1 ace
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Natasha Lauzon and Sebrina Berger each finished with 4 kills and 1 block
The Wolves now sit at 8–3, good for third place in the OCAA East Division. Next up, Algonquin hosts the 9–1 Durham Lords at the ARC on Saturday, January 24th.