Bulgarian central blocker Nikolay Kolev and his PAOK started their participation in the final series of the Greek Novibet Volley League with a defeat. The team from Thessaloniki lost as guests to Panathinaikos with 1:3 (25:22, 25:15, 33:35, 25:16) sets and trails 0-1 wins in the battle for the title.
Kolev was part of PAOK's starting lineup and performed steadily in the middle of the net. The Bulgarian finished with 5 points (4 from attack and 1 from block), having a key involvement in the most dramatic moment of the match – the third set. It was then, in tandem with Kokkinakis, that Kolev made a crucial block for 35:33, with which PAOK brought intrigue back into the match. Nevertheless, his contribution was not enough to compensate for the opponent's collective superiority.
Panathinaikos asserted control from the very beginning and took the first two sets, taking advantage of serious reception problems for PAOK. The hosts were particularly effective from the service line and in blocking, which limited the attacking options of the team from Thessaloniki.
The third set offered a real battle, as PAOK showed character and returned to the match after a prolonged exchange of points. This was also Kolev's strongest moment. In the fourth set, however, Panathinaikos dominated again and closed the match without hesitation.

The difference in the match came mainly from service and blocking:

• Panathinaikos made 12 aces against just 2 for PAOK

• Blocking was also in favor of the hosts – 11 against 6

The absence of Uroš Kovačević was also seriously felt by PAOK, who relied primarily on Fernando Hernández (21 points).
The final series is played to three wins, and the second match is scheduled for April 26 in Thessaloniki. For Kolev and his teammates, this will be a crucial moment where they must react if they want to maintain real chances for the title.
PAOK will have to improve their service effectiveness and defensive play to prevent Panathinaikos from dictating the tempo again. A significant role awaits the Bulgarian middle blocker in his team's attempt to level the series.

Photo:acpaok.gr