The men's team of Levski was on the verge of a valuable success in the postponed match from the 6th round of efbet Supervolleyball against Lokomotiv Avia in Plovdiv, but the drama in the full 'Paisii Hilendarski' hall ended in favor of the hosts. After a series of comebacks, several missed match points, and strong individual performances, the 'Blues' lost with2:3 (14:25, 25:19, 29:27, 29:31, 11:15).
The match was a kind of repeat of last year's final series, which brought Levski the title. This time, however, the "railwaymen" took revenge and achieved their sixth consecutive victory in the championship, remaining undefeated for the season. Lokomotiv solidified their second place with 16 points, just one point behind leader Neftochimic. Levski, on the other hand, remains third with 15 points (5 wins, 2 losses).
Bad start, strong response, and another missed opportunity
The match started catastrophically for head coach Nikolay Zhelyazkov's players. The first set was one-sided, and the hosts took the lead after a decisive 25:14.
In the second set, Levski made a complete restart. Serves, blocks, and a more aggressive first attack brought the 'Blues' back into the match. Julian Weizig's service run secured a 17:13 lead, which was maintained until the end – 25:19 and 1:1.
The third set started perfectly – 12:5 for Levski. However, the Plovdiv team brought the intrigue back, and the end was heart-stopping. The 'Blues' saved two set points, and Todor Skrimov finished the set with two consecutive aces – 29:27.
The fourth set became a pivotal moment. Zhelyazkov gave a chance to the young players – setter Petko Petkov, receiver Petyo Ivanov, and middle blocker Martin Totkov. Levski reached as many asfive match points, but failed to close the set. Lokomotiv turned the game around and snatched the set 31:29, sending the match to a tie-break.
Dramatic tie-break and a loss that will sting
In the decisive set, captain Svetoslav Gotsev did not start due to a physical problem, but later returned to the court. However, this was not enough to turn the tide. Lokomotiv started more confidently and, after a few errors from the 'Blues', closed the match 15:11.
Strong individual performances were not enough
Top scorer for Levski was Todor Skrimov with22 points, including8 aces – a true demonstration of serving. Gordan Lyutskanov added 18 points (2 aces, 4 blocks), Weizig scored 15, and Gotsev finished with 11.
The match was highly intense, with many saved balls in defense and key moments that could have completely turned the tide. Levski left a better impression for large periods of the game, but the lack of a finishing blow in crucial situations and the allowed late comebacks led to their second defeat of the season.
What's next
Levski has a bye in the next round of Supervolley. The team returns to the court onDecember 10, when they host German Friedrichshafen in the first 1/16-final of the CEV Cup tournament in Levski Sofia Hall at 8:00 PM.
Lokomotiv Avia will seek a seventh consecutive victory against Dea Sport on December 6.
