Mata on a mission as TSW triumph in ‘must-win’ clash

TEAM South Wales knew they were embarking on a ‘must-win’ encounter ahead of their recent clash with City of Salford game at the University of South Wales Sport Park in Treforest.

And they dealt with the superbly, triumphing 3-1 in sets.

In their opening game of the season, TSW had beaten Salford convincingly 3-1, but since then the TSW squad has narrowed considerably due to injuries.

TSW started the first set confidently and with good passing and side-out play stayed patient, waiting their chance to take the lead.

This chance came at 17-17 where TSW put Salford under intense pressure with strong serves and attacks that forced errors from Salford and the first set went to TSW 25-21.

In the second set, the intensity remained high and TSW started off where they left off at the end of the first set. Mara Mata, took charge through some effective second balls and defence, and lead the team to the second set, 25-21.

Despite being 2-0 up, TSW coach Castro warned his players not to take their foot off the gas.

However, TSW’s play in the third set lacked the aggression and efficiency of the previous two sets and allowed Salford a foot back in the door of the game by seeing therm take the third set 25-20.

Winning the third set boosted Salford and they went into the fourth intent on taking the match to five sets.

TSW, however, were not willing to let the win go and won the set 25-19 and thereby the match and all 3 match points). pressure