NEWS PHOTO SEAN ROONEY
Brooke Christie (5) of the Rattlers aims for the kill against Ambrose University Friday at Medicine Hat College.
In a rowdy gym filled with fans and fellow student-athletes, Medicine Hat College’s women’s volleyball team lost a tough match to the Ambrose University Lions Friday to open their season.
The Rattlers won the first and third sets but couldn’t come through as the visitors claimed a 3-2 (24-26, 25-18, 18-25, 25-18, 15-9) victory.
A balanced attack saw the Lions, who began their regular season with a win last week, overcome the boisterous crowd. Jeena Johner had 14 kills to lead Ambrose and added 13 digs. Vanessa Boone (11 kills) and Willow Lewington (10 kills) also had big nights.
For the Rattlers, who have advertised depth as one of their keys, fifth-year outside hitter Amber Stigter led with 19 kills and 20 digs. Megan Hoeber (eight kills) and Dryden Gris (seven kills) also helped, but mistakes on offence proved costly.
The teams rematch Saturday night in Calgary.
Men sweep Lions
The Rattlers men’s volleyball team cruised to a 3-0 (25-20, 25-22, 25-17) win over Ambrose in the late game.
No statistics were available by press time but Dexter Mackie was named player of the game for the host side, while Stephen Jones got the nod for the Lions.
