KAMLOOPS, BC - After a first set hiccup, Pandas Volleyball responded with three quick set wins to secure a 3-1 victory in a battle of the top two teams in Canada West. 

The Pandas (15-2) now hold a two-game lead over UBC and Manitoba, and a three-game lead over TRU for the top seed in Canada West.

Abby Guezen led all attackers with 15 kills and 19.0 points, adding two aces and steady defence as Alberta leaned on her in key moments. Laila Johnson was highly efficient, finishing with 15 kills on .542 hitting, while also contributing 11 digs and three block assists.

At the net, Allie Moore delivered a major defensive impact, recording seven solo blocks and six block assists to anchor a Pandas front line that consistently slowed the WolfPack attack. Ronnie Dickson added six kills, two aces, and three block assists, while setter Justine Kolody guided the offence with 39 assists, keeping Alberta balanced across the pins.

Set One

Thompson Rivers set the early tone, capitalizing on extended rallies and Alberta attack errors. Keira Gent and Maria Dancheva found success from the left side as the WolfPack edged ahead in a set that featured multiple lead changes. Alberta stayed close behind kills from Guezen and Johnson, but TRU closed the opener with a late run to take a 1-0 lead.

Set Two

The Pandas responded decisively in the second. Johnson caught fire early with four kills in the opening stretch, while Moore took over defensively, registering multiple blocks to halt TRU momentum. Alberta pulled away midway through the set behind strong serving pressure from Dickson and Guezen, holding the WolfPack to .071 hitting as the match evened at one set apiece.

Set Three

Alberta maintained control in the third, using its block and transition offence to stretch the lead. Guezen delivered key swings in long rallies, and Kolody spread the offence to keep TRU guessing. The Pandas' front line continued to dominate, forcing out-of-system swings and limiting the WolfPack to four kills in the frame.

Set Four 

The fourth set showcased Alberta's most complete volleyball of the night. Johnson and Guezen combined for six kills, while Moore and Dickson closed seams at the net to erase any comeback hopes. Alberta hit .478 in the set, pulling away early and closing the match with a composed finish.