Chennai: Ahmedabad Defenders stayed alive in the third season of Prime Volleyball League (PVL) with a 16-18, 13-15, 15-11, 15-8, 15-13 win over Calicut Heroes in the Super 5s stage at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, here on Sunday.
With the win, Ahmedabad confirmed a spot in the Eliminator and will face Delhi Toofans on Tuesday for a place in the final. Calicut Heroes are through to final and will meet the winners of the Eliminator in the summit clash on Thursday.
Mohan Ukkrapandian began with a super serve, and immediately Ahmedabad were on the back foot. With Perotto and Vinith firing from the opposite ends, and Daniel charging from the middle, Calicut attacked from all areas of the court. Ilya Burau's monster block and Angamuthu's super serve allowed Ahmedabad to level scores. But Vikas Maan's all-round showing helped Calicut take an early lead.
Danial's super serve highlighted the miscommunication in Ahmedabad's backcourt. Shikhar Singh's presence provided Ahmedabad's defence lethal force. Angamuthu came alive and his powerful spikes troubled Calicut's defence. But Perotto and Ashok continued to charge with spikes and helped Calicut take control. Angamuthu continued Ahmedabad's fightback. Having already confirmed a spot in the final, Calicut tested their bench strength, and Ahmedabad made the most of it to get back into the contest.
Ashok continued to attack well for Calicut but service errors proved expensive for the side. Ashok's overhit on the super-point edged Ahmedabad ahead, pushing the match to the fifth set. The errors and miscommunication among Calicut's ranks kept piling up, and Ahmedabad began cruising. Angamuthu's attacks and Shikhar's blocks helped Defenders maintain control. Service errors from Calicut favoured Ahmedabad, who picked up a thrilling win. Angamuthu was named the Player of the Match.
