Aylesbury Vale Volleyball Club

Buckinghamshire Volleyball

High-spirited Vixens lose first match of the Season

14 Oct 2007

Vale Vixens 0
VK Barnet 3
15-25; 12-25; 22-25

The Vale Vixens took on an experienced VK Barnet team in the Cup. Although Vale lost the tie 3-0, they played with high-spirits and VK Barnet had to fight hard to win the game.

Representing the Vixens in their first game of the season were Patricia and Ellie (both outside hitting), Annette and Heather (setting), with Rebecca and Suzanne (both middle hitting). The team was completed by a highly flexible player, Angela (middle or outside hitter) who worked hard on and off court to cheer the team.

In the first set, some net fouls and weak passing allowed VK Barnet to build up a lead. However, Vale recovered well and through strong hitting and a some good receiving they improved to gain some vital points. However VK Barnet maintained their lead through strong passing and won the set 25-15.

A substitution in the second set (Angela for Patricia) did not change the dynamic of the team. It was another slow start for Vixens in the 2nd set as VK Barnet ran up a 10 point lead with a powerful serving. The passing improved but the damage was already done, and VK Barnet won the second set 25-12.

The Vixens rallied in the third and final set, and put on an inspirational performance, showing lots of team spirit. Captain Ellie led the cheer after every point won. The team was quicker to move to the ball, passed more accurately and showed a positive attitude. More precise passes by Annette and Heather led to more aggressive hits. The defense was more accurate, sharp serving by Suzanne and the setters started to build in confidence. Quick reaction at the net by middle blocker, Rebecca stopped threatening attacks from VK Barnet´s best player. However this improved performance came too late to win the last set, which was won by the more experienced VK Barnet team by 25-22 and to win the match overall.

Both sides were happy to have taken part in a good-spirited, enjoyable match. Vale will take heart from this performance as they look to improve on their debut season in the league only last year.

Team: Ellie Austin (c), Rebecca Little-Lasbistes, Heather Fairweather, Suzanne Kruize , Patricia Guest , Angella Tape, Annette Ellis