The second part of the regular season in the Credem Banca SuperLega began with a convincing performance by the Italian vice-champions. In a match from the 12th round, Cucine Lube Civitanova won away against MA Aqua S.Bernardo Cuneo with a 0:3 set score (23:25, 18:25, 19:25) and recorded their first away victory in the 2025/2026 season.

Giampaolo Medei's team demonstrated a completely different face away from home – aggressive serving, stable blocking, and better defensive organization, which was clearly evident throughout the three sets. The MVP of the match was the Canadian Eric Loeppky, and Aleksandar Nikolov and Mattia Bottolo also played strong roles.

Set Progression

First Set – 23:25

Lube started focused and took an early lead with good serving, but a series of inaccuracies allowed Cuneo to equalize and even pressure their opponents. In crucial moments, Loeppky took responsibility, and the visitors' stable block tilted the scales in their favor. The Canadian closed the set with an ace.

Second Set – 18:25

The second set went point-for-point until the middle, after which Civitanova's serve broke the hosts' reception. Two aces by Bottolo and constant serving pressure secured a comfortable lead. Cuneo failed to find solutions in attack and gave up without serious resistance.

Third Set – 19:25

Lube built an early lead after a strong serving run and good blocking, but a brief dip followed, which brought Cuneo back into the set. In the most tense moment, Aleksandar Nikolov stabilized the visitors' play with crucial attacks. The end came after renewed serving pressure and another error by the hosts.

Individual Highlights

Eric Loeppky finished as the top scorer with 16 points, excelling in attack, serving, and blocking. Aleksandar Nikolov added 15 points (+2, 3 aces, 83% positive and 33% perfect reception, and 46% in attack), being key in the third set, while Bottolo contributed 11.
For Cuneo, Ferreall was the top scorer with 15 points, followed by Sedlacek with 11, but their efforts were not enough against the visitors' more stable play in defense and counter-attack.

Civitanova gave themselves an early Christmas present, but their ambitions are higher. By the end of the calendar year, Lube has two more serious challenges – a home match against Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza in the 13th round and an Italian Cup quarter-final against Sir Susa Vim Perugia. The victory in Cuneo could prove to be a key psychological boost for the remainder of the season.