Volleyball Masters an exciting affair
THE 2018 Garuda Capital ethekwini Volleyball Masters Tournament drew to a dramatic close last weekend.
Hundreds of spectators filled into the University of Kwazulu-natal Westville Sports Centre and were treated to three thrilling days of action.
The women’s final saw KAD Beasts romp to victory over sister club
KAD Beauties, while the men’s final produced a ding-dong battle between old foes Liberte and Delfos, which the former won in straight sets.
The competition caters for women and men over the age of 30 and 40 and is hosted in partnership with UKZN Sport and the UKZN Volleyball Club.
After beating the highly-fancied
All Star Saints from Cape Town in the semi-finals, Liberte were favourites to defend their title. Standing in their way was a star-studded Delfos team.
The first set brought thunderous applause from the crowd as both teams traded huge blows.
With the scores tied at 19 apiece, Liberte setter Kiresh Harilal turned to captain Seelan Naidoo, who delivered crucial points for him. The Tongaat side closed off the first set 25-17.
In the second, Liberte raced to a frantic 12-6 lead before Delfos coach Logs Naicker called his men for a timeout. Naicker then introduced veteran setter Matthew Govender, whose calm demeanour brought former national captain Andile Masinga into the game.
With the score at 20-19, Harilal again orchestrated a Liberte resurgence. This time he laid the platform for Masinga’s ex-teammate in the South African team, Prenalen Govender, and outside hitter Pramesh Naidoo to pound away to a resounding 25-20 win.
“As the captain I am incredibly proud of the guys,” Naidoo said. “We have been playing together for a long time now, we really are a family. The support was incredible, both teams had wonderful support.”
KAD Beasts retained their crown with a composed 25-17, 25-20. Beasts setter Raycine Nana dictated play for her side, while middle blocker Sashnee Nair constantly slowed down and stopped attacks at the net.
“The girls worked very hard, spent many hours in preparation for this tournament. Winning this competition means a lot to the club,” said KAD head coach Prenesh Nana.