Men's NVL Firsts Vs. Chester & Ellesmere Port Eels
Sunday 5th November 2006
The University of Birmingham had played Chester last week and beaten them convincingly with a lot of the University's starting six able to be rested for the game. However, as Chester were warming up, the experienced players of our squad noticed they had several additions compared to the last meeting. Because of this, we knew the game would be different from the previous week, so our game plan was scrapped and we started with our strongest six of Mattri, Olie, Moodley, Huddleston, Olivo, and Potocki.
The first set was a tough one with the score staying about equal for the whole time, but the University's strength in attack won the first set. The second set started with the University continuing with their strongest line up. The second set again was tough, with UoB finding themselves a few points down throughout the set. Jan Potocki was changed with Christian Schneider to add some height and power but despite this the University team found themselves 21-15 down nearing the end of the second set. However, some excellent serving from Grant Huddleston, the score was brought back to 21-21. From here, it could have gone either way. Vital blocks from Fred Olivo and great hitting from Thegan Moodley gave the set to University team.
The third set again started with the University's strongest six - substitutions were too risky with a strong Chester side. The set was the same as the previous two with both teams making some big blocks and powerful spikes. The breakthrough came when Grant Huddleston came to serve and gave the University of Birmingham a five point lead. When the serve was lost, Grant Huddleston was given a much deserved rest and changed with Sascha Singer. Sascha made an immediate impact by winning the serve back. Fred Olivo then went on to add another 5 points by serve giving the University a 10 point lead and the platform to go on and win the third set, and the match.
The University of Birmingham remain unbeaten in the Division and now sit at the top of the table.
Match Facts
Competition: EVA National League Division IIIN.
Played: Away.
Result: Won 3-0.
Set Scores: 21-25, 24-26, 16-25.