In a decisive third semifinal match, the Montreal women's volleyball team showcased exceptional skill and teamwork, securing their spot in the championship by defeating McGill in straight sets.
The match, held at Montreal's CEPSUM on February 23, 2025, witnessed standout performances from both teams, with Montreal's offensive efficiency and defensive solidity making the difference.
Montreal's offense was spearheaded by Milica Djordjevic, who delivered a flawless performance with 10 kills and a .556 hitting percentage, and Florence Lapointe, who contributed 13 kills. Setter Sarah McGlashan orchestrated the attack with 38 assists, ensuring a well-distributed offense. Defensively, Ilona Millan led with 11 digs, while the team's collective effort at the net resulted in 11 blocks, stifling McGill's attempts to gain momentum.
McGill's efforts were highlighted by Rachel Leduc, who managed 12 kills, and Emilia Grigorova, who added 11 kills with a .348 hitting percentage. Despite their contributions, McGill struggled with consistency, evident in their .139 team hitting percentage and 22 attack errors, which hindered their ability to sustain rallies against Montreal's formidable defense.
The match drew an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 300 spectators, who braved the chilly conditions to support their teams. The officiating crew, led by referees Patrice Preville and Martin Kingsbury, maintained a fair and well-regulated match, ensuring the focus remained on the athletes' performances.
Score by Periods:
Set 1: Montreal 25, McGill 17
Set 2: Montreal 25, McGill 20
Set 3: Montreal 26, McGill 24
Top Performers:
Montreal:
Milica Djordjevic: 10 kills, .556 hitting percentage
Florence Lapointe: 13 kills
Sarah McGlashan: 38 assists
Ilona Millan: 11 digs
McGill:
Rachel Leduc: 12 kills
Emilia Grigorova: 11 kills, .348 hitting percentage
This high-caliber volleyball match not only highlighted the exceptional talents of both teams but also set the stage for an exciting championship ahead.