OSHAWA, Ont. - The Durham Lords fell in four sets to Redeemer in the OCAA women's volleyball championship qualifiers on Saturday afternoon. 

The Lords' defensive effort saw them collect 76 total digs and 10 solo blocks, effectively challenging Redeemer's attackers throughout the match. However, Redeemer's offence proved efficient, hitting .203 as a team and capitalizing on critical points late in the sets.

Despite taking the third set in dramatic fashion, the Lords struggled to close out the fourth, where Redeemer's balanced attack and strong serving pushed them ahead.

The final scores were 20-25, 17-25, 26-24, and 22-25.

Chelsea Oke led the Lords with 13 kills on 43 attempts, while also contributing 10 digs. Oke's consistent effort on both offence and defence kept Durham in the match during critical moments.

Elizabeth McFarland added nine kills on 25 attempts and was also a force at the net, registering three solo blocks and six digs.

Setter Brooke Young distributed the offence effectively, finishing with 31 assists and 16 digs. Young also contributed with three solo blocks and two kills, demonstrating her versatility. 

Veronika Cavojska provided additional offensive support with seven kills and 12 digs. Jayde Smyth was a key defensive anchor, recording a team-high 18 digs.

As the team bows out of OCAA competition, the Lords will now turn their focus to the 2025 CCAA Women's Volleyball Championship, hosted by Durham College.

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