MATCH REPORT - A snatched victory for Poitiers

Indesit European Champions' League 2002-2003

Stade Poitevin Poitiers 3/ Paris Volley 2

25/22 in 25min., 25/19 in 23 min., 18/25 in 23min., 18/25 in 23 min., 17/15 in 20 min.

I a frenzied arena, where Salonique, Ankara and Belgorod had already stumbled, Poitiers started the game full sail ahead.

Under the supervision of royal Chambertin and gigantic Kubala, Poitiers quickly took the lead and put the pressure on Paris who then was very uncomfortable. The Parisians tried to minimize the damage, but in vain, in spite of a good reception lead by Novak.

At the beginning of the second set, Paris looked up. Ruette finally managed to place his wins. Poitiers remained calm in the storm and thanks to Montméat, blocking as strongly as he attacked, finally took the lead. Yoko put an end to the set with a ferocious smash.

A jostled Paris had no intention to capitulate without fighting. Glenn Hoag's team lead by a flamboyant Kieffer and the majestic libero Kilama, quickly dug a gap. The Poitevins, a little tired, dropped the third set without much fighting in spite of the coming back of Kostandinovic and a big Novotny.

The same sad scenario took place again as soon as the fourth set started. Paris took the lead thanks to a dazzling Novak whose spikes and blocks made Poitiers stagger.

An exciting tiebreak could star. Paris felt at ease but Poitier's team, more collective, did not give up. Either Chambertin smashed or Kubala blocked! Francastel's men matched up to the Parisians in an irritating final. A vicious ace from Montméat put an end to the suspense. After this snatched victory, the Poitevins still have to win in Paris before being part of the four best teams to play the Indesit European Champions' League finals in Milan.