Amidst the December battles in the French Marmara Spike Ligue, one constant is emerging: Tourcoing is playing like a true contender, and Bulgarian opposite Venislav Antov is becoming a symbol of this transformation. In France, they are already talking about "the magic of Le Lagrange" – a hall that has turned into an impregnable fortress, and Antov is among the main reasons why opponents cannot withstand the pressure. After the dramatic 3:2 victory over the giant Tours and his selection as MVP, the Bulgarian was once again a leading factor in the team's sixth consecutive league win – this time against Narbonne.
Tourcoing – Narbonne 3:1 (25:19, 25:15, 25:27, 29:27)
In front of over 1000 spectators at "Pierre Dumortier", the hosts imposed their will and achieved their ninth victory of the season. After the success, the team remained in second place with 24 points – just one behind leader Montpellier.
Individual Performance – Antov again stands out
The Bulgarian opposite played another strong match and was the most valuable player of the encounter:
22 points, efficiency rating +15, 2 blocks, and 61% attack efficiency.
This performance solidifies the trend
– Antov not only adapted but also dominates, and French media emphasize that his play is a key factor in Tourcoing's rise. After a record 45 points against Chaumont and the new MVP award against Tours, he demonstrates consistency at the highest level.
Table: Top Scorers of the Match
| Player | Team | Points | Blocks | Aces | Attack Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Venislav Antov | Tourcoing | 22 | 2 | 0 | 61% |
| Ignacio Luengas | Tourcoing | 21 | 2 | 3 | 64% |
| Kristopher Biesgaard | Narbonne | 17 | - | - | 50% |
| Liam Peit | Narbonne | 16 | 2 | - | 40% |
| Thibault Thorral | Narbonne | 15 | 1 | - | 45% |
Statistics clearly show the leadership of Antov and Luengas – the two are the backbone of Tourcoing's attack, scoring a total of 43 points. High efficiency in attack (over 60% for both) is crucial for success. Narbonne relies on more players with double-digit scores, but lacks an impactful figure of Antov's caliber to carry the team in key moments.
The victory against Narbonne comes just days after the epic clash with Tours – a match that French media describe as 'everything volleyball has to offer'.
And then Antov was decisive – 27 points and MVP. French journalists note that:
Antov is 'an opposite hitter who plays with composure in the most tense moments'.
His play 'instills confidence in teammates and pressure on the opponent'.
He is 'fully acclimatized to the championship and is becoming one of its stars'.
This context reinforces the significance of his latest strong performance against Narbonne – the Bulgarian is already among the most discussed players in France.
After the new success, Tourcoing solidifies its position among the leading contenders, and Antov continues to build his role as a key factor in the team.
In the next round, the team visits strong Plessis-Robinson – another important test where the Bulgarian's form will be decisive.
photo:LNV - Tourcoing
