Bulgarian international Preslav Petkov played an exceptionally strong match and helped Duren finish seventh in the German League Cup tournament.
In their last match of the competition, held in Hildesheim, Duren defeated Netzhoppers Königs Wusterhausen 3:1 (22:25, 25:15, 25:18, 25:22).
The 22-year-old middle blocker started as a starter in all four sets and finished with 11 points, 8 of which came from blocks. He scored the other three in attack, where he achieved 33% efficiency (3 of 9).
Petkov's performance at the net was crucial for Duren's superiority in this element. The Bulgarian recorded 8 of his team's total of 13 successful blocks, while the opponent finished the match with a total of 8 points from this element.
Duren lost the first set 22:25, but then took control of the match. In the second set, the team gave the opponent only 15 points, and in the third, they won 25:18. Netzhoppers put up more serious resistance in the fourth set, but Duren closed the match at 25:22.
The top scorer for the winners was Polish outside hitter Marcin Ernastowicz with 20 points, 15 of which were in attack with 60% efficiency and 4 blocks. Paul Nusterer added 16 points, and Jordan Canham finished with 13.
In addition to the number of blocks, Duren also had an advantage in attack - 45% against 39% efficiency. This, along with Petkov's strong play at the net, allowed the team to overcome a shaky start and finish the tournament with a win.

photo:Volleyball Bundesliga