BRANDON, Man. - Tom Friesen's performance in the fifth set Friday lifted the Bobcats to a critical 3-2 (25-21, 21-25, 25-23, 19-25, 15-9) win over the MacEwan Griffins.

With the December break approaching, each set and match is proving to be critical, and Friesen found a new level in the final frame Friday.

Friesen's career-high 21 kills included eight in the fifth set (on just 10 swings) to cement the victory.

The Bobcats also saw a double-double performance from sophomore setter J.J. Love, who finished with a team-high 44 assists and 10 digs.

Jefferson Morrow led the attack for MacEwan, registering a team-high 20 kills. Both Alexei Walliser (12 kills, 10 digs) and Daylan Andison (12 kills, 12 digs) finished with double-doubles for the Griffins.

The win improves Brandon's record to 3-6 while the Griffins remain winless at 0-9.

The two teams meet again Saturday to conclude the weekend series, with first serve coming at 6:45 pm at the BU Healthy Living Centre.