Slovenia claims ticket to the next round of 2012 CEV Women’s Junior Volleyball Championship
Slovenia defeated Belgium on Sunday to secure a place in the next round of 2012 CEV Women’s Volleyball Championship.
The two Pool B teams had equal chances to make it to the next round but Slovenia proved to be better and stamped 3-2 (25-16, 25-20, 22-25, 13-25, and 15-7) win over Belgium. The city of Nova Gorica in Slovenia provided the backdrop for influential match,
where hosts totally profited the home advantage.
Slovenia showed its intent to score victory with a great opening in the match. They served with accuracy and added quick points to pick up lead. On the other hand, the visiting Belgian team suffered early setbacks and trailed behind at the first technical
timeout 2-8. By the time Belgium scored 6 points, Slovenia had marked 16 points on the scoreboard. Slovenia continued at fast pace and closed first set, 25-16.
Following the loss of set1, Belgian players retaliated and displayed good effort in second stanza. They tied the score at the first technical timeout (8-8). Nonetheless, the hosts managed to take 4-point lead at next break and pushed the rivals behind. Belgium’s
performance comparatively improved in second set but still it was not enough to lead them to success. Slovenia extended its lead to 2-0 by scoring ‘25-20’ in second frame.
The raged-up Belgian squad hit back more aggressively in third set and used almost every way to down the Slovenians. The hard work finally paid off and Belgium went up on the scorecard. They remained on the same course and created a little spark on the centre
court with third set win. Belgium got stronger in the game with fourth-set victory, which got the Slovenian thinking to overcome their flaws.
The game entered fifth decisive set, while Slovenia also bounced back in the game. They blocked Belgium at a low score of 7 and claimed final set of the game. That was how, Slovenia seized victory against Belgium and advanced to the next round of the tournament.
The winning coach Bruno Najdic seemed absolutely thrilled about the brilliant feat of his team. He shared his thoughts after the match in the following manner, “We were a little nervous as we knew we had a unique opportunity to qualify for the final round;
we had our ups and downs but after these five matches I can only say that I am proud of my girls who have showed some great play and real character here in Nova Gorica. If we have a look at the future perspectives, I think that Slovenia shall really invest
in this generation.”
He further emphasised that the current line-up of Slovenia’s junior team has great qualities. Moreover, he thanked everyone on the team for their fighting spirit, desire to win, and great quality of play.
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