Persian stop Regional 2nds winning run
Sunday 15th January 2012
Powerful attacks proved ineffectual in the end
If previous matches with Persian Phoenix were anything to go by, this match was going to be tough. They certainly didn’t disappoint; the team started off well in the first set, keeping Persian on their toes and gaining a good lead. Unfortunately though, Persian managed to make enough of a comeback to even up the scores for the majority of the set. Persian’s final push and the added pressure was enough for them to win the set 25-23.
The second set saw some fresh players and added pressure to win back the point. It progressed to be another very close set throughout, a couple of controversial calls by the ref caused some tension within the team, which saw them lose 25-23.
The team were determined to give everything they could in the third set, only for Persian to put up some stern competition. Superior effort from the team and some incredible spikes from Julio and Justin helped Birmingham pull a win out of the bag with another close 23-25 score.
The fourth set was tense, with a lot riding on it; the team’s morale had improved, and consequently their performance; most notably, some repeatedly stunning blocks from Martin. Persian’s winning streak had been quelled and with it, their resolve; Birmingham managed to pull ahead with a firm win of 21-25.
Hours of determination and exertion from both teams brought the game down to the final fifth set. By this point both teams were exhausted, Birmingham evidently more so, having employed most of the same few players throughout the game. Persian’s final push and their desire to win saw them gaining a pretty heavy lead in the first half of the set. The team managed to recover a few more points in the second half; sadly it wasn’t enough. Persian Phoenix won the set, and the match, with an impressive 15-6 score.
Match Facts
Competition: West Midlands League.
Played: Home.
Result: Lost 2-3.
Set Scores: 23-25, 23-25, 25-23, 25-21, 6-15.