Axewomen drop home opener to defending AUS champion Tigers

(WOLFVILLE, N.S.) - The defending AUS champion Dalhousie Tigers kicked off thier 2013-14 regular season with a 3-0 road win over the Acadia Axewomen Friday night in AUS women's volleyball action at War Memroial Gym in Wolfville, N.S.

Despite losing in straight sets to the reigning conference champions, the host Axewomen eam took a giant step forward.

While the first set shook off some opening night jitters with a 25-14 loss, Acadia rebounded with a strong second game, giving the Tigers all they can handle in an exciting 30-28 win over Acadia.

High pressure errors were apparent in the team's second set loss. Ahead 22-20, several unforced errors allowed the Tigers to fight back and grab the win.

Tied at 10-10 in the eventual final set, Dalhousie stretched the lead to 20-15 before closing out their hosts in the third set by a score of 25-18.

Acadia head coach Michelle Wood was pleased with the team's performance and effort despite the loss.

"We are very happy with the way the girls competed tonight. The team did a great job of following the game plan, however our inexperience did get the best of us in some pressure situations. In saying that, our group has been working very hard in training and the development was noticeable today".

Dalhousie's Desiree Nouwen, named the Subway Player of the Game, had a match-high 13 kills and a .290 hitting percentage.

The turning point for the Axewomen was making too many unforced errors in the 20 points and above range. Several young players showed great confidence in their play and coach Wood expects several players to help shape the future of the program.

"As a first year attacker, I believe Sarah Ross got the attention of her opponents today. Marissa Chin, a second year Axewomen, served very aggressively and veteral Meg Rector was a threat in the front row which held the blockers opening up the opportunity for our other attackers to be successful. It was a combined effort by all".

Veterans Kristen Bolduc and Meg Rector led Acadia with seven kills each while rookie Sarah Ross added six.

The Axewomen will prepare for their next match against Saint Mary's on Wednesday, October 30 at 7pm. The Tigers will also host Saint Mary's on Nov. 6 at 7pm at the Dalplex in their home opener, a rematch of last year's AUS Final.

Source: Acadia Sports Information