Defenders ward off Toofans’ challenge in a thriller
The Ahmedabad team puts an end its opponent’s sevengame winning streak with a hardfought victory in five sets, with the last one extending to 34 points
In a dramatic fiveset battle, defending champion Ahmedabad Defenders edged out the Delhi Toofans 1510, 1115, 1015, 1512, 1816 to claim its first victory in the Super 5 stage of Prime Volleyball League here of Friday.
The reigning champion started strong, dominating the first set with powerful attacks led by its star universal Angamuthu.
However, the tide turned in the second set as Toofans fought back with S. Santhosh and Daniel Aponza spearheading their offence. A crucial blow came for Defenders when their experienced attacker S. Nandhagopal suffered a knee injury and had to leave the match.
Despite the setback, the Ahmedabad team displayed resilience. In the third set, a thrilling duel unfolded between Angamuthu and Santhosh, but ultimately Toofans secured the set with the help of Santhosh’s and Lazar Dodic’s dual ‘Super Serves’.
Shon T. John, who replaced the inform Nandhagopal, proved to be a gamechanger for Defenders. His defensive blocks and precise sets boosted his teammates, particularly Max Senica who found his rhythm again.
This surge of energy propelled Defenders to win the fourth set and force a decider.
The fifth set was a nailbiter, extending to 34 points. Defenders initially thought they had secured the win, but a determined
Toofans challenged the call, leading to a tense review which extended the game.
Ultimately, the Ahmedabadbased team ended their opponent’s sevengame winning streak and secured a hardfought win.
The result: Ahmedabad Defenders bt Delhi Toofans 15-10, 11-15, 10-15, 15-12, 18-16.