Blues force first-place Mariners to fifth set, but lose 3-2

The CapU Blues (8-6) returned to the court after a bye week to play host to the first-place VIU Mariners (13-3) on Friday night at the Sportsplex. The Blues came out with energy and intensity as they took the first set, 25-20 with strong overall team play. In the second set, although the Blues held a 18-16 set lead, they were overtaken by the Mariners, 19-25.

With the match tied, 1-1, the Mariners took a 16-15 lead and cruised to 25-23 third set victory. Down 2-1, the Blues came back with a vengeance, taking a dominating early lead 15-6, to eventually win the fourth set 25-16 and force a fifth and deciding set. A back-and-forth fifth set gave way to a 15-11 set victory and 3-2 match win for the Mariners.

Notable performances for the Blues include: Kira Sutcliffe (20 kills) and Keeley Bell (7 kills).

The Blues (8-7) are back at home tomorrow, Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. for a rematch with the Mariners (14-3). ​

Emily Wright,  CapU Sports Information Director