Montana's team showed its teeth in the capital's 'Vasil Simov' hall, but after an excellent start and winning the first set, they allowed a comeback and lost 1:3 (25:23, 17:25, 25:27, 19:25) to CSKA in the derby of the second round of efbet Super Volley. The match was one of the highest quality so far in the championship, and for Dani Peev, this was his first game after his official announcement as the new head coach of the Bulgaria U22 national team, where he will work alongside Georgi Petrov.

Montana started inspired and with excellent offensive organization took the lead after 25:23. From then on, however, the hosts found countermeasures – they stabilized their reception and block, and Iranian receiver Mohammad Reza Beik and Nikolay Penchev led the Reds to a comeback.

Individual statistics

Polish opposite hitter Krystian Walczak was undoubtedly the most prolific player on the court with 27 points and over 50% efficiency in attack – statistics worthy of a win, had he received greater support from his teammates. Montana showed excellent moments in the first set and several times came close to equalizing in the third, but the lack of stable reception in key rallies proved decisive. CSKA, for their part, demonstrated depth and confidence – especially in game organization and saved balls in defense. For the visiting team, it was evident at times that they had not yet adjusted to their new setter - Viktor Zhek.
Mohammad Reza was named MVP of the match.

After this success, CSKA has 2 wins from 2 matches and 6 points in the provisional standings, while Montana remains with 1 win and 1 loss, with 2 points. In the third round, the team from Montana will host Dunav (Ruse), and "the Army Men" will visit Beroe 2016 (Stara Zagora). Both matches are on November 8 at 6:00 PM.

photos: NVL andcskavolley.com