Bulgarian nationals Denis Karyagin and Rusi Zhelev played a strong match, but their efforts were not enough for Macerata to succeed, as they lost to Brescia 1:3 (25:20,21:25,23:25,17:25) in the first playoff series match.
Karyagin finished with 14 points (-15,+8), 1 ace, and 47% attack efficiency, adding 48% positive and 30% perfect reception. Zhelev was also on form – 12 points (-12,+8), 2 aces, and 2 blocks, with 38% in attack and stable reception (55% positive, 36% perfect).
Macerata started excellently and took the first set, but in the third, they squandered a nine-point lead, which proved crucial for the final outcome. It was there that the hosts from Brescia turned the tide and took control of the match.
In the fourth set, Zhelev provided an early impulse, but Brescia waited for their moment and, through the match's top scorer Tondo (16 points), achieved the final success.
The rematch is on April 15th, and for Macerata, victory is mandatory to keep their chances alive in the series.

photo: legavolley.it