Vero Volley Monza beats ASPTT Mulhouse to stay on winning track

On Wednesday night at Palais des Sports, ASPTT MULHOUSE VB took on Vero Volley MONZA in the 4th leg of the 4th Round in the CEV Champions League Volley - Women. The encounter delivered some great rallies, but even if the hosts led by Kimberly Drewniok showed their teeth, it was not enough to stop Vero Volley Monza, who played almost flawless and earned important victory in three sets - their third consecutive straight-set win in Pool B, as they only lost the opening match against Vakifbank.

ASPTT MULHOUSE VB vs Vero Volley MONZA 0-3 (18-25, 22-25, 18-25)

In their first match-up, which was held back in December, Vero Volley Monza earned a straight-set win and they entered the court being highly-motivated to gain another victory in three sets. The visiting team from the beginning was a leading side and with a few winning streaks they ran away with the score, even if Mulhouse spared no effort at their home venue. Kimberly Drewniok was the brightest point in the French team, impressing with wide range of spikes (and scoring seven points in the opening set), but it was not enough against Monza. Alessia Orro was choosing perfectly where to set the ball, as Monza had 60% of success in attack, with Lise Van Hecke (7 points) and Anna Danesi (4 points) being leaders in attack.

The second set looked completely different as it was a fierce battle. Spectators gathered at Palais des Sports could enjoy a passionate point-by-point race. Drewniok was joined by Anna Haak and Amanda Coneo in offense, the hosts performed really well also in block, but still it was not enough to stop the guests, who played almost flawless. Van Hecke was still the best scorer of Monza, but it was Katarina Lazovic who made the biggest difference, as from 22-22 she produced three consecutive winning spikes that eventually closed the set.

The third part was a close one until the middle of the set, from 16-15, Vero Volley Monza started to build their advantage, being determined to end the game in three sets. Hanna Davyskiba joined the squad on the court and became one of the main forces, next to Hecke and Danesi - who eventually closed the game.

Lise Van Hecke, who not only was the best scorer of the match with 16 points, but also impressed with her other stats - 50% of positive receptions, 58% of success in attack - was named the MVP of the match. Kimberly Drewniok was a top scorer of Mulhouse after tallying 15 points.

Earlier on Wednesday, Fenerbahçe Opet ISTANBUL outclassed VC Maritza PLOVDIV in the Super Match of the Week, staying unbeaten leader of Pool D. In Pool C, Dinamo MOSCOW emerged victorious from thrilling five-set battle against THY ISTANBUL.