The semifinal series in the Russian championship between Lokomotiv (Novosibirsk) and Zenit-Kazan entered a decisive phase, but instead of solely sporting arguments, refereeing took center stage. After the dramatic fourth match, won by the "railwaymen" with a score of 3:2 (25:21, 22:25, 25:23, 21:25, 15:13), an official reaction followed, leading to the replacement of the referees for the last match of the series. This was reported by BO Sport and championat.com.
Official assessment: "low quality" and gross errors
The Control and Qualification Commission of the All-Russian Board of Referees thoroughly reviewed the work of Nikolay Knizhnikov and Alexander Pavlov. The focus logically fell on the fifth set, where the most controversial situations were concentrated.
The conclusions are more than critical a low quality of refereeing was noted, accompanied by serious methodological errors precisely at the decisive moment of the match. Both referees received "average" and "below average" ratings, with the conclusion explicitly stating that their decisions led to tension, numerous disputes, and a negative impact on the image of volleyball.
This assessment was not just a formality it directly influenced the next appointment.
Referee change for Match No. 5
The Federation reacted by appointing a new officiating team Ryabtsov and Golovin for the decisive fifth match in Kazan on April 16. The move is a clear signal of an attempt to avoid a repeat of the events from Novosibirsk and to de-escalate the tension surrounding the series.
The tie-break where the referee "lost the plot"
The decisive fifth set in Novosibirsk became an example of how refereeing can come to the forefront at the most inopportune moment. At 5:3 for Zenit-Kazan, an ace was initially awarded to the guests, but after prolonged review, the decision was changed to a disputed ball. Replays, however, rather suggest a touch on Kazachenkov's leg a situation that left doubts about an error.
Shortly thereafter, another issue arose a net touch was called against Volvich, but television footage did not provide definitive confirmation. Such hesitations further disrupted the match's rhythm.
The culmination came during Drazen Luburic's serve. The ball landed on the boundary between in and out, and the Kazan players also claimed a touch by Kurbanov. Initially, the point was awarded to Zenit, but after protests, the decision was revised to a disputed ball. The lack of a definitive video reply only heightened the sense of chaos.
Lokomotiv kept its composure
In this heated atmosphere, Lokomotiv demonstrated stronger nerves. On Simeon Nikolov's serve, the team achieved a crucial run for a 9:6 lead in the tie-break, which proved decisive.
In terms of gameplay, the success of the Novosibirsk team is beyond doubt. They were more stable in key elements blocking, defensive play with saved balls, and efficiency with high balls. These very details made the difference in the evenly matched game.
The tension remains for the final clash.
The series has now transcended purely sporting dimensions. The dissatisfaction in the Zenit-Kazan camp, Plamen Konstantinov's reactions, and the emotional outbursts on the court create an extremely tense backdrop before the decisive match.
Everything will be decided in Kazan, where, in addition to the quality of volleyball, refereeing will also be under serious scrutiny. After what happened in Novosibirsk, every call will be under a microscope.
photo:sport.business-gazeta.ru
