For this 24th day of the Marmara Spike League, Nice faced Saint-Jean-d’Illac. A crucial match for staying in the league. At kickoff, Nice was 12th in the standings with 18 points, and their opponents were 14th and last with 11 points. In the first leg, Nice had won.
The beginning of the match was marked by high intensity from both sides. The two teams traded blows. Some great attacks by Nice helped maintain the advantage throughout the set. Despite a 16-all tie, the Nice players displayed good tactical mastery. At the end of the set, the NVB managed to widen the gap thanks to well-constructed attacks and solid defense. Trailing 24-20, the Illacais managed to save three set points. The fourth one was the charm for Nice, who claimed the first set of this match 25-23.
The start of the second set was very different. Seeking revenge, the Illacais put strong pressure on their hosts. Although trailing 5-1, they managed to come back to six-all, thanks particularly to multiple service errors by their opponents. Moments later, Nice even managed to regain the lead (9-8). Ahead on the scoreboard, the Nice team never let go. They capitalized on the defensive and service errors of their opponents. The gap even widened to six-point leads at several moments, such as at 23-17. The first set point was successful this time. The Eagles won this second set 25-19. Nice broke away 2 sets to 0.
A Logical Victory
Like in the first set, this third set was very closely contested. Neither team managed to pull away. Nice managed to take the lead at 4-3, but was overtaken at 11-12 before regaining control at 13-12. The Nice team never relinquished their points advantage, even extending it to four points (21-17). The end of the match was thrilling. Nice ultimately won the set 25-22. Confident, the Nice team concluded the match 3 sets to 0. However, there was no change in the standings, and Nice remains 12th. Nevertheless, this victory allowed them to gain a 10-point lead over their opponents of the day, who are last, and to secure their place in the league.
Driven by hot performances from Simon Hirsch and Matteo Schalk, the Nice team never really faltered. The two men scored 14 and 13 points respectively. The latter was named the player of the match.
The next meeting is at home at 7 p.m. on March 16 against Paris.
