Beroe achieved an extremely valuable victory over Lokomotiv Avia in a dramatic match from the tenth round of the championship, inflicting the first loss on the Plovdiv team this season. The hosts won 3:2 (25:16, 14:25, 28:26, 19:25, 15:13) after more than two hours of tense play in the "Ivan Vazov" hall in Stara Zagora.

The match offered everything comebacks, saved match points, strong serves, and decisive defensive interventions. Lokomotiv Avia showed character by saving three match points, but ultimately succumbed to the more concentrated Beroe squad, who took the lead twice in the sets, leading to a tie-break.

High-tension tie-break

In the decisive fifth set, Beroe was the first to reach the eighth point and built up a lead of 14:10. However, the visitors' serve and block postponed the loss three times before Velizar Chernokozhev put an end to this intriguing and dramatic duel.

Chernokozhev MVP of the match

Beroe's opposite hitter was deservedly chosen as MVP, having scored 20 points, finishing with +10, 53% attacking efficiency, and key plays in decisive moments.

The contribution of Tunisian international Ben Taher, who joined the championship later due to visa issues, also proved particularly important. In his short stint in the fourth set and tie-break, he scored 6 points, which significantly tilted the scales in favor of the hosts.

Experienced Plamen Shekerdzhiev also played a strong match 20 points, +13, 2 aces, 5 blocks, and 43% in attack, often being Beroe's main offensive option. Martin Mechkarov added 16 points, +6, 4 aces, and 40% in attack, contributing significantly with his serve.

Lokomotiv Avia also impressed

Despite the defeat, the guests from Plovdiv had several excellent individual performances. Captain Todor Valchev was above all, finishing with 21 points, +14, 4 aces, 3 blocks, and 50% in attack, demonstrating leadership and stability.

In the direct duel between the two 30-year-old opposite hitters, no clear winner could be determined Zhulien Georgiev also scored 20 points, with +9, 1 block, and 54% in attack.
Kristiyan Aleksov added 18 points, +4, 1 ace, and 57% in attack, while middle blocker Ivaylo Damyanov recorded 15 points, +10, 3 blocks, and an excellent 75% in attack.

It's no coincidence that Damyanov is already attracting the attention of national team coach Gianlorenzo Blengini, who personally observed his play during one of Lokomotiv Avia's home games.

Thus, after the tenth round, Lokomotiv Avia leads the standings, also thanks to the point gained during their away game in Stara Zagora:

photos: NVL.bg