It would have taken a feat on Saturday evening at Palmeira to beat the leader of the French volleyball championship. Yet Nice, a young newcomer in League A, entered the match without any complexes, dominating Tours with style and logically winning the first set (25 – 16). A set that sparked great hopes among the 500 spectators present. Everyone at some point believed: could the 2009 French Cup winner fall in Nice? But that was not counting on the experience of the players from Tours. Beaten by the cross smashes of the players from Nice during the first set, they managed to react by being more present in blocking and winning the key points to take the second set 22 – 25.
Tours leverages experience
After one hour of play and one set each, everything was still to be decided between the two teams. Nice, diligent and playing smartly, was in the lead in the third set. But it was indeed Tours that took the lead in the crucial moments, and Nice was defeated 25 – 27 after saving two set points. The fourth and final set closely resembled the previous one, with Nice being strong and leading initially, but Tours rolling out their game with experience to conclude 22 – 25 and secure an important away victory. Final score: Nice 1 – 3 Tours (25-16, 22-25, 25-27, and 22-25).
The Coach’s Perspective
Léonard Baric, coach of Nice Volleyball, will remember “a magnificent first set”, analyzing that “when our serve doesn’t work, we’re vulnerable”. For him, “it’s a shame, Tours showcased their experience”. The club’s objectives remain unchanged, “We’re playing to stay in the league, and we’ll also try to compete in the cup. I hope we continue to play like this”.
