Neftochimik 2010 (Burgas) tied the semifinal series against Lokomotiv Avia (Plovdiv) after winning 3:1 (19:25, 25:22, 25:20, 25:22) in the second match of the efbet Super Volley in "Mladost" Hall.
The team from Plovdiv won the first match 3:0, but the Burgas team reacted and restored balance – 1-1 wins in the series, which is played until three victories out of five matches.
The first set was under the control of Lokomotiv, which imposed strong serving and stable blocking for 25:19. From the second set onwards, Neftochimik raised the level of their serve and pressure from outside hitters, which tilted the scales. In key moments, the hosts were more effective, especially at the end of the third and fourth sets, where they resisted attempts at a comeback.
Adi Osmanovic (17 points) and Martin Krastev (13 points, 8 aces!) played a strong match for the Burgas team, while for Lokomotiv, Julien Georgiev was the top scorer with 20 points.
Team statistics:
| Statistic | Neftochimik | Lokomotiv |
|---|---|---|
| Blocks | 14 | 12 |
| Attack % | 39% | 44% |
| Attack points | 42 | 51 |
| Positive reception | 32% | 37% |
| Aces | 12 | 2 |
| Service errors | 17 | 16 |
| Points from opponent's errors | 26 | 22 |
| Total points | 94 | 88 |
Neftochimik compensated for lower attacking efficiency with a categorical superiority in serving – 12 aces against just 2 for the opponent. It was the serve that disrupted Lokomotiv's reception and created direct points and easy counter-attack situations. The block also tilted the balance in favor of the Burgas team, which, combined with more points from opponent's errors, proved decisive for the final success.
photo: nvl.bg
