Women's BUCS Vs. University of Oxford
Wednesday 19th November 2008
Birmingham’s second home game of the season and second game coached by Fabrizio Marrama was as exciting as anticipated. The gym was packed with spectators from the men’s BUCS team, both regional teams and a few others to support a full Birmingham squad.
With cheers filling the court Birmingham went on court fully prepared to win, taking an initial 4-1 lead. Although Birmingham were playing well enough to sustain a lead throughout the set, unforced errors were high throughout the set giving coach Fabrizio Marrama much to think about. However, the set was won by Birmingham 25-15.
The second set was a complete contrast to the first. With the high number of unforced errors continuing and a general lack of enthusiasm from Birmingham team, Oxford took a 21-16 lead and their jump serving outside hitter helped Oxford take the set 25-19.
Losing the second set so poorly was wake up call for Birmingham and Stefania Lanzini came to the rescue. Serving an excellent 14 points, the majority of which Oxford failed to return, taking Birmingham to a 15-2 lead. Birmingham had to remain focused for the rest of the set, and with the help of warning from the coach in two late time-outs Birmingham cut out most of the unforced errors that had cost them the second set, winning the third set 25-11.
Birmingham sustained their improved level of play throughout the fourth set and claimed a convincing 25-17 win, and the match 3-1.
Match Facts
Competition: BUSA Midlands League Division One.
Played: Home.
Result: Won 3-1.
Set Scores: 25-15, 19-25, 25-11, 25-17.