Fundy overcomes tough DP Todd
Phil Stahl (7) of the Langley Fundamental Titans serves to his opponent. [Photo credits to Paul Yates]
Langley Fundamental’s sixth-seeded Titans got a bigger challenge than they expected Thursday afternoon but survived in four sets as they advanced to the AA quarterfinals.
An energized DP Todd team went blow for blow with Fundy in the second set, and powered by late kills from Cameron Cain and Joel Ingham, took the set 33-31.
“We underestimated them,” Titans coach Dan Johnson said, “and they played well against us. Our energy level wasn’t there.”
Fundy’s blocking improved late in the third set as the Titans erased a 3-point deficit and took the final two sets 22 and 19.
“Our guys started penetrating on our blocks,” Johnson said, “and that really helped.”
The Titans, who have only one Grade 12 starter (Luc Degianni) were led by Grade 11s Phil Stahl, Max Heppell and Zec Johnson, Dan’s son.
“We moved Zec from setting to power after the Fraser Valleys,” the coach said, “and it has given us another hitting option. He’s also a good passer.”
Fundamental, which won the BC’s in 2013, will play in Thursday’s quarterfinals against third seed Langley Christian. LCS beat Woodlands 25-15, 25-19, 25-23.
