Durham University 3 - 1 Tendring Ladies
16:25, 25:16, 25:18, 26:24
Report by Mechell Daniel
After a hard-fought game on Saturday, Tendring women’s volleyball team lost 1-3 (25-16,16-25,17-25, 24-26) away against Durham. We came into the game feeling confident and excited to play against a strong sided team. The Tendring Ladies began the first set strong, staying aggressive at the net offensively and defensively. Our passing was very stable, which meant that Piyusha was able to distribute the ball efficiently. We continued to push throughout the set, hustling for every ball which enabled us to finish 25-16.
In the second set both teams were siding out fast. However, gradually throughout the set Durham started to take the lead. Both teams had strong defense and there were a lot of long exciting rallies. Durham was more in system, which meant offensively they were becoming more of a threat for Tendring. Even though Tendring kept on fighting back, it was too late, and Durham took the second set.
In the third set Tendring had to take back control of the game. Again, we started strong, but Durham was more in system and challenging our defense with their large offensive side. Milly Smith had a long serving run which enabled us to get back into the set. But unfortunately, Durham was able to make that final push and grasp another set from Tendring.
Tendring now had to start the fourth set strong as Durham was 2-1 up. The passing improved and we were able to make more points offensively. Everyone was hustling for every ball. At the end of the set Ellie Cranch went on a serving run with a few aces which put us back in the game tied, 20-20. Despite the long rallies and efficiency by Tendring at the end of the set, Durham was able to win the game 26-24. Even though we lost, this was an exciting game to see the potential Tendring has to grow throughout the rest of the season.