SASKATOON, Sask. - The Saskatchewan Huskies moved within one win of advancing Thursday (Feb. 19) night, defeating the Brandon Bobcats at the Physical Activity Complex to open the Canada West Play-In round with a 1-0 series lead.

In a matchup where offensive efficiency proved decisive, Saskatchewan separated itself midway through the second set and did not relinquish control. A service run that included consecutive aces turned a one-point margin into clear momentum for the Huskies and established the cushion they would carry through the remainder of the match.

"I thought the guys came out really strong offensively," said head coach Sean McKay. "Even when our passing wasn't at its best, Noah [Opseth] did a great job putting our hitters in good situations. When our offense is firing, we're in a really good spot. If we can clean up our serve and pass and tighten up our block defence a bit, we'll be in a good position tomorrow."

The result gives Saskatchewan an opportunity to close out the best-of-three series in Game two on Friday (Feb. 20) at 6 p.m., while Brandon will need a win to extend its season.

Saskatchewan's offence set the tone early. The Huskies hit .500 in the opening set and limited Brandon's opportunities to string together extended runs, taking the first frame 25-16. Setter Noah Opseth distributed efficiently despite inconsistent passing stretches, allowing Saskatchewan to maintain offensive rhythm throughout the match.

The second set featured tighter exchanges early, with the teams trading points before Saskatchewan created separation. Improved serve pressure forced the Bobcats into tougher attacking situations, and the Huskies capitalized in transition. The 25-19 decision put the home side one set away from the sweep.

Brandon's strongest push came in the third. The Bobcats narrowed the deficit to 23-21 late, but Saskatchewan responded with two consecutive kills to secure the 25-21 win and complete the straight sets victory.

The Huskies finished with a .359 team hitting percentage compared to Brandon's .145 and recorded nine service aces in the match.

Emmett Graham led all players with 15 kills while hitting .440. Isaiah Mamer added 13 kills and two aces, and Mathieu Methot contributed five kills along with a team-high four blocks. Opseth, who set a new Huskie program record with his 3,257th assist, recorded 36 helpers and 10 digs in the win as Saskatchewan totaled 41 kills. 

Brandon was led by Liam Pauls with eight kills, while Liam Kindle and Thomas Friesen each added six.

Game two is set for Friday (Feb. 20) at the PAC, with Saskatchewan aiming to advance and Brandon looking to force a deciding third match.