Box Score 1 | Box Score 2 Calgary, AB – The Mount Royal Cougars snapped their losing streak with a commanding 3-1 victory (25-16, 18-25, 25-22, 25-22) over the Brandon Bobcats at Kenyon Court on Thursday afternoon. A collective effort spearheaded by standout performances from Paul Dionne and Ryan John secured the Cougars' second win of the season.

The Cougars (2-8) came out firing in the first set, establishing an early 10-2 lead powered by strong serving from Maxim Turgeon and timely kills by Jovan Stepanovic. Mount Royal hit an efficient .250 in the set while limiting Brandon to a dismal -.048 hitting percentage. The defensive wall led by Grant Hill frustrated the Bobcats' attack, allowing the Cougars to cruise to a 25-16 opening frame.

The Bobcats rebounded in the second set, showcasing their offensive potential. Philipp Lauter and Samuel Chen combined for eight kills, helping Brandon hit a blistering .526. Brandon capitalized on Mount Royal's errors to take the set 25-18 and even the match.

Mount Royal regained their rhythm in the pivotal third set. Paul Dionne delivered six kills, including a clutch finish to seal the set at 25-22. The Cougars' defense shone, with Hill and Turgeon combining for multiple blocks to stifle Brandon's momentum.

The fourth set proved a nail-biter, with both teams trading points deep into the frame. Ryan John's powerful swings and Dionne's leadership proved decisive, as the duo tallied a combined nine kills in the final set. A service ace by John brought the Cougars to match point, and Dionne's thunderous kill sealed the 25-22 victory, igniting the home crowd.

Dionne led all players with 12 kills on a stellar .360 hitting percentage, contributing 15.5 points. John added 11 kills and 13.5 points, while Stepanovic chipped in with seven kills. Hill orchestrated the offense with 38 assists and anchored the defense with nine digs. Turgeon's three service aces and six blocks highlighted his all-around impact.

For Brandon, Lauter was a standout, tallying 12 kills on an impressive .588 clip. Chen and Liam Pauls each added seven kills, but the Bobcats could not overcome their 19 service errors and inconsistent play.

The Cougars will look to build on this momentum as they play game two of the series tomorrow at Kenyon Court. If you are unable to make it, you can catch the game live on Canada West TV.