OSHAWA, Ont. - In a hard-fought battle against the undefeated Seneca Sting, the Durham Lords fell just short in a five-set thriller. 

The Lords started the match on a high note, dominating the first two sets.

Elizabeth McFarland led the charge offensively, recording 13 kills and maintaining a .222 hitting percentage. Her steady presence on the attack kept the Sting's defence on their heels. 

Brooke Young orchestrated the offence masterfully, dishing out 33 assists while contributing 14 digs, showcasing her versatility and composure under pressure.

Defensively, the Lords were anchored by Jayde Smyth, who tallied a team-high 21 digs, consistently neutralizing Seneca's offence. Jessie Buck demonstrated her all-around abilities, contributing seven kills, four service aces, and three solo blocks, making her presence felt in all phases of the game. 

Chelsea Oke was another standout performer, combining eight kills with 18 digs to play a pivotal role on both offence and defence.

The Lords' blocking game was a bright spot throughout the match. With 13 total blocks, including three each from Buck, McFarland, Kate Quemby and Katherine Konkle, Durham effectively disrupted Seneca's attack, especially in the early sets.

Despite the commanding opening, the Sting showed why they remain unbeaten, clawing back to win the third and fourth sets before taking control in the decisive fifth. Durham's .343 hitting percentage in the fourth set reflected their continued fight, but Seneca's efficiency in the final frame proved to be the difference.

Durham will return to the court next weekend with two matches in two days as the Lords take on the Georgian Grizzlies in Barrie before travelling to North Bay to face the Canadore Panthers.

Stay in the know regarding Durham College Athletics and follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook.