The Varsity Blues women’s volleyball team dropped a close 3-1 (19-25, 23-25, 25-22, 21-25) decision to the McMaster Marauders on Saturday afternoon (Feb. 11) at the Athletic Centre Sports Gym.

Toronto’s loss in their fifth annual Cheer Blue, Think Pink match drops them into fifth place with a 10-7 record. The Marauders stake claim on fourth place (11-6) with the win.

"We created some great opportunities for ourselves but didn't capitalize on them," said Varsity Blues head coach Kristine Drakich. "It will be important for us to let go of this one and be ready to play tomorrow."

Ottawa native Charlotte Sider tallied a team-high 17 kills and led all players with 30 digs on the day. Rookie Denise Wooding recorded 13 kills and 14 digs, while setter Malena Rapaport had 37 assists and 17 digs in the loss.

The Marauders jumped out to a 16-9 lead and despite a late rally from the Blues, took the first set 25-19. The second proved to be a back-and-forth affair but Toronto surged ahead and held a 20-13 lead midway thorugh.   The Marauders mounted a huge comeback, going on a 12-3 run to take the second 25-23.

The third proved just as close with the scoring tying five times. Toronto took a narrow 16-14 into the technical timeout and with some help from veteran Shannon Rossall, the Blues earned the win 25-22.

McMaster secured the match victory with another close battle, ending the fourth on a 10-4 run. 

The Varsity Blues return to the court tomorrow afternoon as they host their final regular season home game versus the Ryerson Rams. Game time is set for 1 p.m.

GAME NOTES:

The Varsity Blues honoured breast cancer survivors Jolan Storch, Mary Drakich and Kathy Venn in a pre-game ceremony at this afternoon’s match.

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