TORONTO – The Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Bold men's volleyball team dropped the opener of this weekend's subway series Friday night, falling in straight sets to the University of Toronto Varsity Blues. The loss drops the Bold to 4-3 on the season. TMU still sits near the top of the OUA, tied for fourth with the University of Toronto.

In what was expected to be an even match-up with the Varsity Blues (4-3), there was very little separation between the two sides in the opening set. Jacob Walker led the Bold with five kills in the first, however the Varsity Blues were able to establish a lead behind a strong team hitting performance. The Varsity Blues lead was as large as five, however as they attempted to close out the set the Bold mounted a resilient comeback. It was highlighted by strong defensive play, namely big blocks from Liam Cobb and Alex King. Despite forcing extra points however, the Varsity Blues eventually captured the opening set 26-24.

The University of Toronto quickly jumped out to a 12-6 lead in the second set. What little momentum the Bold could generate was swiftly lost due to hitting and service errors throughout the second. The Varsity Blues racked up 16 kills to the Bold's eight. This helped Toronto take a commanding 2-0 lead, with a 25-14 set win.

The Varsity Blues began the third set on a 5-1 run. Despite facing a 2-0 deficit in the match, and already a multi-point deficit in the set, the Bold remained resilient. TMU eventually drew even, their 11-6 run capped by a thunderous Kai Higuchi kill bringing the score to 12-12. The Bold momentum quickly came screeching to a halt however as yet another service error came back to bite the Bold. The Varsity Blues restored their multi-point advantage on the ensuing service game, riding their momentum to a 25-20 set victory, securing the straight sets win.

The two sides will face off in a rematch tomorrow afternoon from the Goldring Centre. Catch all home and select road games on Oua.tv this season.