MVB | Trojans Spoil Kodiaks Home Opener

Oct. 18, 2019 - The Lethbridge College Kodiaks began their season with a home-and-home series against the SAIT Trojans. While the Kodiaks had high expectations to live up to based off their most recent season, the Trojans showed up with other plans in mind.

Second year, Quinn Buchanan of Lethbridge left everything on the court in Friday's home opener. Buchanan was a consistent player for the Kodiaks in a chaotic game which earned him player of the game. 

It seemed as though the Kodiaks nerves had gotten the best of them as they gave the first set up to the Trojans. Lethbridge's head coach, Greg Gibos was forced to call a timeout in attempts to raise his squad's intensity. Ultimately, the Kodiaks could not catch up to SAIT as fifth year Tyler Latu'ila made six kills in the first set proving to be an offensive threat.

After shaking off the nerves, Lethbridge came into the second set with authority. Fourth year Tony Albizzati was crucial in the second set as he made five digs and three kills to ensure his team stayed focused.

As the game shifted into the third set, the intensity amongst both teams grew. Quinn Buchanan showed great leadership on the court as his passion for the game was clearly showcased in every play. The Trojans managed to gain control of the game, while the Kodiaks fell behind, struggling to keep up. 

Headed into the fourth set, intensity was at an all time high while the teams battled hard eager to take the lead. However, it was point for point for most of the set, neither competitor letting easy points slip by. Eventually, the Trojans managed to squeeze by earning themselves another victorious set which, in conclusion gave them the win.

The Kodiaks dropped the first match in this home-and-home series. While there were plenty of positives to celebrate, Lethbridge will also look to make some adjustments as they anticipate another close game at SAIT.

Players of The Game:

Trojans: #16 Chris Kayser

Kodiaks: #22 Quinn Buchanan