Box Score KELOWNA, B.C. - Noah Carlson led the charge for the UBC Okanagan men's volleyball team as they squared off with the U SPORTS No. 9-ranked UBC Thunderbirds on Friday night, ultimately falling in four sets at The Furnace.
Despite facing a Thunderbirds team which they have not conquered since the 2013-14 season, the Heat came out strong out of the gate. The home squad capitalized off of the momentum from the crowd of 750 fans, securing the first set 25-19.
The 'Birds responded quickly to defend their ranking, taking the next two sets from the home squad with decisive 25-13 and 25-16 scores.
The Heat found their footing again in the following set, battling it out back and forth with their sister-school. UBCO's late game push in the fourth and final set saw the home squad closing a 17-12 deficit to as close as 22-20, but ultimately the 'Birds would come out on top 25-20.
Carlson of Sylvan Lake, Alta., was the star of the show for the Heat, tallying a total of nine kills and one dig in his total nine points. Carlson's effort was complimented by the reliable Max Heppell of Langley, B.C., who contributed seven kills, one ace, and four digs in the losing effort.
Michael Dowhaniuk of White Rock, B.C., would help propel the Thunderbirds to victory, putting up 14 kills, three service aces, and seven digs for a combined total of 18 points. Coltyn Liu of Vancouver, would also have a solid evening, finishing the match with 11 kills, two service aces, and five digs.
After the evening matchup, both squads now sit at a 3-2 record on the season.
The Heat will have their shot at redemption as the two teams are set to meet again at 5 p.m. on Saturday night at The Furnace. Tickets for the game can be purchased at the gate upon arrival at the UBCO Gymnasium.
