San Marino claims first win of the tournament on Day-3 – Volleyball news
Men’s National Junior Volleyball Team of San Marino finally broke the ice and clinched success in the third match of Small Countries Division at the 2012 CEV Junior Volleyball Championship.
San Marino defeated Northern Ireland in straight sets of 3-0 (25-11, 25-21, 25-12). Previously, San Marino played two matches but could not achieve success. Luxembourg defeated San Marino in the tournament opener, while Scotland sent them to second defeat.
Nonetheless, San Marino made a great comeback in the game and pulled off success against Northern Ireland.
BENVENUTI Lorenzo played an instrumental role in San Marino’s victory. He contributed match-high 21 points and led his team to a splendid straight set victory. Rondelli and TERENZI added 9 and 8 points, respectively. Northern Ireland team trailed behind
throughout the match and none of the Irish players could strike attention in the game.
San Marino got off to a good start and promptly went up on the scoreboard. The accurate serves and powerful shots allowed the team to put pressure on the Northern Ireland squad. San Marino stretched the gap points without paying much effort as Irish team
became irresistible. Visiting team asked for a timeout and discussed the prospects of the game. As the play resumed, they tried to get out blues but it never happened. San Marino quickly covered the length of first set and seized first-set win with fair margin
of 14 points, 25-11.
In the second set, Northern Ireland managed to score some early points and pushed the pumped-up San Marino squad behind. However, the situation drastically changed when San Marino started heavy strike of volleys.
Meanwhile, Northern Ireland coach asked for the timeout. The timeout proved to be a good help for Northern Ireland. The Irish players bounced back in the game and once again took lead. It seemed as if Northern Ireland got its form back in the game.
Nonetheless, San Marino attackers delivered unstoppable hits and wrecked opponent’s defence line. Eventually, San Marino improved to 2-0 by winning second set, 25-21.
The Irish team was deep down in trouble after losing two sets in row. Despite a lot of efforts, the team failed to overcome the San Marino squad. Third set was totally dominated by San Marino.
With the help of convincing attacks and solid defence, the trio of Lorenzo, Rondelli and TERENZI led their team to third set victory. The final score of third set was 25-12, while San Marino marched away with victory.
In the next run, San Marino is set to come across the favourite team of the tournament Cyprus. On the other hand, Northern Ireland will meet Luxembourg in the fourth match on Friday.
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