In Calgary, Trojans edge Kings in 5 sets

The Red Deer College Kings came into tonight's match against the SAIT Trojans sitting in 1st place in the ACAC Men's Volleyball South Division, but in a competitive field of ACAC Men's Volleyball there are no easy matches. The Kings, who are ranked 1st in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA), are still without the services of a few injured student-athletes and faced a motivated Trojans team. SAIT pushed the RDC Kings to the limit and won in the 5th set.

In the opening set, SAIT took an early lead and won 25-20. The RDC Kings rebounded in the 2nd set and won 25-18. In an intense 3rd set, the Trojans defeated the Kings 31-29. The Kings took the 4th set 25-22 to tie the match up 2-2. It was another close one in the deciding set, but the Trojans won 15-12.

Regan Fathers totalled 20 kills, 8 digs and 1 stuff block for RDC. Ryan Beatson contributed 53 assists, 2 kills and 3 digs. For SAIT, Trent Mounter had 19 kills, 1 assist, 2 service aces and 9 digs.

Kings Head Coach Aaron Schulha saw opportunities slip away tonight and also praised his opponent.

"Despite a tough week with injuries and ilness, we had our opportunities to win the match tonight but didn't execute at key times," said Schulha. "I give credit to SAIT who did a very good job from the service line and on serve-receive so we will need to tighten up those areas tomorrow. It's going to be another dog-fight Saturday and we have to refocus."

Michael Sumner was chosen as the Kings player-of-the-game. The Bachelor of Commerce student finished with 4 assists and 22 digs. As a team, the Kings totalled 64 kills, 60 assists, 2 service aces and 60 digs. Despite the loss, the RDC Kings remain in top spot in the ACAC Men's Volleyball South Division with 28 points. Matthew Lofgren rolled his ankle late in the match, will be evaluated and currently is questionable to play on Saturday.

The Kings (14-3) host the Trojans (11-6) Saturday at 8:00 p.m. at RDC in a rematch.