IBB Polonia London are, once again, in the final of the National Cup

On Saturday, 24th February 2018, on their home court, IBB Polonia defeated Wessex in straight sets to reach the final of the National Cup. The team from West London never gave their rivals a chance of winning and thanks to such an emphatic victory 3-0 (25-19; 25-16; 25-11) made it through to the final.

“Wessex is always a very difficult opponent to play against as it is quite a young and very agile team. We were, however, very well prepared both physically and tactically for this match. The stuff we focused on in training paid off during the match. Out serving was a crucial element of success as we pushed the other team away from the. Our passing was excellent and although they tried to find weak points in out reception we were solid throughout and that in turn allowed our setters to play dynamic and fast volleyball with combinations through the middle of the net and both wings. In addition a few successful digs in defence, and two or three rallies that ended in our favour also gave us psychological edge and that allowed us to dominate the game especially in the second and third sets. The performance of the team was excellent and we should striving to play consistently at this level.– said Marcel Sivak, IBB Polonia London libero.

The match was an emotional one, not only for the players and members of the Club, but also for the numerous fans. Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre became a magnet for volleyball spectators and for those who love IBB Polonia London VC. The support was, traditionally, vociferous and this helped the home team secure another win.

“I think the entire match was enjoyable for the players but also for the fans who were ultimately one of the deciding factors in yesterday’s win. The support and the atmosphere were incredible and urged us on. We are very grateful for the energy they expend in pushing us through tough points. “ added Marcel Sivak.

“Every match played is an emotional affair. On Saturday, the energy was amazing from the stands because the prize was a place in the final. We are delighted that our support helped realise the goal. We look forward to even more success in the near future. I would like to encourage all those who love volleyball to join us in supporting the team at the next matches and also to become a member of the Fan Club. We want more people to enjoy what we do and to help out team to defend both titles this year.” commented the President of the Official Fan Club, Jan Ploszaj.

IBB Polonia London now plays a number of league matches. Next Saturday Piotr Graban will lead his players to take on local rivals Richmond Docklands. The match starts at 2.30PM and tickets are available online. The final of the National Cup takes place in less than two months. The game will be on Saturday, 14th April at the National Volleyball Centre in Kettering. The opponents will be the current Super 8 league leader: Team Northumbria. The northerners beat Sheffield Hallam 3-0.

„Northumbria is a strong opponent and they have been performing very convincingly. We are however a much more experienced team, including experience from playing in finals which adds to our advantage. I am therefore very confident that we have all the tools to be successful and defend the cup championship.” – ended Sivak.

More information will be found online and also on IBB Polonia Facebook page.

IBB Polonia London has three victories of the National Cup (1990-91; 2015-16; 2016-17). Two years ago the victory was against Team Northumbria.

Pic. sandsphotos.co.uk