Italy secures Olympic berth via European Qualifiers – Volleyball news
The 2012 European Men’s Olympic Qualification Tournament came to an end on Sunday, May 13. Following many gruelling battles on the centre court, Italy paved its way to the top slot and earned ticket to 2012 London Olympic Games.
Italy was challenged by resilient rival Germany in the final showdown of the tournament. The Arena Armeec competition hall in Sofia, Bulgaria set up an excellent field of play for the match, which was witnessed by some 9000 spectators. Italy sent 25-22,
26-24, 19-25, 22-25, 15-12 on board and claimed 3-2 victory.
Germans could not turn the match decision in their favour but they staged a terrific performance. Top gun of Germany György Grozer charted 28 points and emerged as the top scorer of the match. Italy’s Ivan Zaytsev claimed the second spot by adding 19 points,
while his teammate Michal Lasko contributed a total of 17 points.
Italy started off slow in the match and trailed behind until the second technical timeout. German hotshots, on the other hand, displayed a convincing effort and enjoyed better status. However, Italian continued with their efforts and managed to catch up
with the opponent. Italy went up and eventually claimed first set, 25-22.
Despite a great opening, Germany had to suffer an early set-back. It dragged the German side under psychological pressure, while the Italian players enjoyed a good form. They jumped 8-7 lead in the second set and converted it into 16-15 at the second mandatory
stop. German blockers and attackers put up a great effort but failed to prove their endeavours. Italy improved to 2-0 by winning second set with two points (26-24).
Following the loss of two sets in row, Germany hit back aggressively and threw everything in attack. As a result of strong offence, the next two frames came successful for Germany. The fourth set ended with dead-lock of 2-2 and game entered decisive fifth
set.
Final set of the match was totally dominated by Italy. They picked up a strong lead of 5-2 and maintained a fair distance from Germany up till the end. German team could not sustain the pressure lost the final set, which declared Italy as winner of the final
match.
Likewise, the mentor of Italian team Mauro Berruto commented, “It is still difficult to think in this very special moment for us. I believe that the best two teams in Sofia met on court today and I am happy that we managed to start this game in the best
possible way and to win the decisive tie-break later. We will use the extra time for our preparation and I hope we will be in our best shape in London.”
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