Kolkata Thunderbolts put up a clinical display by defeating Calicut Heroes 16-14, 15-10, 17-15 in the second semi-final of the RuPay Prime Volleyball League Championship at GMC Balayogi Stadium (Gachibowli) in Hyderabad on Friday.
Thunderbolt will take on Ahmedabad Defenders in the summit clash on Sunday. Saturday is a day of rest.
enthusiastic return
It was a combination of David Lee, captain Jerome Vinith and Ajit Lal that helped the Heroes lead 10-7 in the first set and the Thunderbolts made a spectacular comeback, with Aswal Rai making two impressive runs to level the score at a crucial juncture. Make spikes. 14 o’clock
Then to the dismay of the Heroes, Jerome’s spike went out and Rahul brought up a brilliant serve to get the set for the Thunderbolts.
In the second set, the Heroes were off to a good start again, taking a 4–1 lead before the talent of Ashwal Rai and a brilliant display of power and smart play by Matthew August saw the Thunderbolts dominate the latter half of the set. . The setter is giving commendable support with Janshad.
Vineet Kumar complemented Mathew with his scintillating spikes, as the Thunderbolts won the second set comfortably. The Heroes took an early 7-0 lead in the third set and Lee and Jerome excelled with their double blocks as well as big smashes.
Then, the Thunderbolts horseman showing his class at the nets took a turn and Rahul again brought up a big serve.
Ironically, the ever-confident Lee net-faulted in his attempt to block the unobtrusive spike at 15-16 to signal an emphatic victory for the Thunderbolts.
Vineet Kumar and Janshad were adjudged the joint winners of the ‘Player of the Match’.
Result: Second Semi-Final: Kolkata Thunderbolts bt Calicut Heroes 16-14, 15-10, 17-15.
,