Durham end Richmond Docklands’ cup dream

Richmond Docklands’ KO cup run came to an end in the semi finals after a battling display against Durham Palatinates. After a mix up over Durham’s venue booking the tie was switched to Kingston but Richmond Docklands were unable to make home advantage count against a powerful and athletic Durham side.

Richmond competed with the team currently in second place in the Super League but couldn’t find the required consistency to maintain the pressure on the visitors.  Richmond’s highlight was undoubtedly set two when they played some of their best volleyball of the season.  Outside hitters Noah Goalen and Panos Karagiannis starred on the wings whilst Vuk Kosanovic brought energy and power to the court.  The home side took the set 25-21 to level the match at one set all.

But the tall Durham middle blockers Ben Sebastian and Kevin Owens were able to out range their opposite numbers, and despite some valiant fight from Richmond, Durham were able to book their place in the final with a 3-1 victory.  They will face Polonia who demolished Richmond Docklands’ next opponents Malory Eagles in the other semi final.

Black Knight: Noah Goalen

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Men’s Division, our under 15 boys team qualified for the last 8s without dropping a set in the first two rounds.  Well done to coach Peter Soczewka and the team.

Also, our Surrey League team enjoyed a 3-1 win over Crawley on Sunday.