Vero Volley Monza concluded its series of friendly matches with a 0:4 (20-25, 20-25, 18-25, 23-25) defeat while visiting Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza in the hallPalabancaSportThe match was the final test before the start of the SuperLega season, and coach Massimo Eccheli gave almost all his players a chance to play, including the two Bulgarians – Zhasmin Velichkov and Martin Atanasov.
Monza was without its starting setter Zimmermann and libero Scanferla, which noticeably affected the reception organization and attack speed. Piacenza, led by its new head coach Dante Boninfante, showed greater power from the serve and higher efficiency in attack.
📊 Match Statistics
| Team | Sets | Aces | Service errors | Blocks | Attack efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza | 4 | 7 | 25 | 8 | 53% |
| Vero Volley Monza | 0 | 1 | 12 | 11 | 40% |
Although Monza performed better in blocking, with 11 successful blocks against 8 for the opponent, the team lagged significantly in attack. Only 40% attack efficiency and barely one ace were not enough to put pressure on Piacenza's strong squad, which showed better balance and depth in its roster.
🇧🇬 The Bulgarians in play
Zhasmin Velichkov started the match and scored 6 points, contributing steadily in attack from zone 4 and helping with several saved balls in defense. The young receiver continues to impress with his confidence, and his involvement is shaping up to be a valuable option for Eccheli in the upcoming season.
Martin Atanasov, also in the starting lineup, finished with 5 points, demonstrating stability in reception and good synchronicity with setter Knaip. The Bulgarian international was periodically substituted as the coach sought different combinations, but he showed consistency in his actions and was among the most active in transitions from defense to attack.
🔜 What's next
After this friendly match, Monza returns to the hallOpiquad Arena, where they will open the season in the SuperLega with a home match against Sir Susa S.B. Perugia – one of the favorites for the title.
The Bulgarian duo Velichkov – Atanasov is expected to be among the key figures in Massimo Eccheli's rotation, especially with the absence of some of the main starters.
