Axewomen falls to UNB on the road

Axewomen falls to UNB on the road
Box Score
January 17, 2026

Acadia dropped a four-set decision to UNB on Saturday at the Richard J. Currie Center, falling 25–21, 19–25, 25–17 and 25–16. Despite the loss, the Axewomen delivered a strong second-set performance and will look to build on it as they return home next weekend.

Acadia's best stretch came in the second set, where they hit .417 with 15 kills and no errors. That response helped the visitors even the match after UNB claimed the opening set.

The first set opened with a tight exchange. Charley McDonald put Acadia on the board early, finishing a play set up by Katie MacLean. Jenna Lake added a kill shortly after as the Axewomen stayed within reach despite a few service errors. UNB began to pull ahead midway through the set, but Acadia responded. Mia Lemay-Evans delivered a service ace and combined with Lake and McDonald on a block to close the gap to 21–19. UNB answered late and closed the set 25–21.

Acadia controlled much of the second set. McDonald opened the scoring, and the Axewomen quickly settled into rhythm. MacLean distributed the ball well, setting up Lake and Alexia Lemay-Evans for key points. Strong blocking and efficient attacking allowed Acadia to maintain a steady lead. Jenna Guy and McDonald found openings late, and Acadia capitalized on UNB errors to secure the set 25–19.

UNB regained momentum in the third. After McDonald scored the opening point, the Reds used a run that included a service ace to build an early lead. Acadia narrowed the gap midway through the set behind Alexia Lemay-Evans, but UNB extended the advantage with consistent offense and closed the set 25–17.

The Axewomen started the fourth set well. Alexia Lemay-Evans and Guy helped Acadia take an early 3–1 lead. UNB responded with a run that shifted control, using strong serving and capitalizing on attack errors. Acadia continued to battle, with contributions from Olivia Nicholls and MacLean, but UNB maintained separation and closed the match with a 25–16 win.

MacLean finished with 32 assists and two block assists. McDonald recorded five total blocks, including three solo, and added five kills. Lake led Acadia with 12 kills and six digs, while Guy contributed six kills and 14 digs.

Acadia returns home Friday, January 23, when they host Moncton.