LONDON, Ont (January 17, 2020)- The Queen's Gaels (8-3) traveled to London, Ontario and defeated the Western Mustangs (8-4) 3-1 in a four-set match after falling behind 1-0.
 
GAME FLOW 
Western set the tone of an evenly set match from the beginning. The Mustang's strong kills were able to secure the first set 25-22 despite Julia Wiercigroch's impressive defensive play. Wiercigroch continued to show strongly throughout the match. In addition to her 18 digs, she also smashed nine kills and completed five serving aces. 
 
Queen's rallied in the second set to even the score. With Arielle Palermo making quick work of the second set on offence, putting down four kills in the second set and leading the match with 13 total match kills and three serving aces. The Gaels took the second set 26-24. 
 
The third set was characterized by strong serving for the Gaels. Saffron van der Linde lead the third with huge kills and strong blocking on defence. Van der Linde put down a match total of six kills and eight blocks. The Gaels took the set 25-14. 
 
Set four was crunch time for the Mustangs, and it was evident that the match was not yet over. The Mustangs held strong on defence, with blocks and ample energy from their defensive digs. However, the Gaels continued with the aggressive offence they showed in the second and were able to take the set with a close 25-22 final. The Gaels took home the match in the fourth set 3-1. 
 
BY THE NUMBERS 
13- kills for #10 Arielle Palermo
8- Blocks for #19 Saffron van der Linde 
18- digs for #11 Julia Wiercigroch 
5- aces for #11 Julia Wiercigroch 
 
UP NEXT
The Gaels are up against the Winsor Lancers January 18^th at 6:00pm. Tune into OUA.TV to cheer on your Gaels live!