Mariners Win a Rare Thursday Night Match

The College of the Rockies Avalanche made the long two day trip to the Island to face the VIU Mariners is league play. Their journey started Wednesday morning in Cranbrook where they hopped on the bus and made their way to Abbotsford for an overnight stay. After a night's rest, it was back on the bus and a trip to the Ferry terminal where they then boarded and found their way to Nanaimo.

Waiting for the Avs was a well rested VIU squad.  The day started with COTR, VIU and CapU in a three-way tie in the standing, with COTR having two matches in hand.  VIU started out well taking the first two sets 25-21, 25-21.  COTR put up a fight as they won a set of their own, 25-19. VIU regained the momentum and finished off the Avs 25-19 to take the match 3-1. 

"We started out excellent on Thursday night. We stuck to our game plan and found ourselves leading the match 2-0." said VIU head coach Abe Avender.  "Going into the 3rd set we seem to take our foot off the gas and COTR took advantage of it and made short work of us in the 3rd. Between the 3rd and 4th set, we were able to re-focus and regain the upper hand in the 4th and eventually, win the match.

"We had an outstanding performance from Zach Grigg whom lead all Mariners with 18 Kills, 15 digs, 2 blocks and 2 services aces. Setter Ryan Marcellus put together one of his most consistent match of the season helping the Mariner hitters to have a good night."

Both teams go at it again Friday night at 8 pm.