The level is further raised, in addition to the pressure, the temperature and the stakes. Because tomorrow (Sunday 28 April, 7pm) the semi-final series of the Serie A3 Credem Banca playoffs opens. Opposite, the two teams that finished second in their respective regular season groups: Smartsystem Fano and, obviously, Belluno Volley. The first act will be staged in the Marche region. Already today (Saturday 27th), after lunch, the group will leave for the city of Vitruvius, while tomorrow morning the finishing touches are scheduled at the Palasport Allende: the theater of the match.
CHANGES AND SOLUTIONS – Gian Luca Colussi gets straight to the point: «We’re going to Fano to play it». Compared to Palmi, it promises to be a very different duel. From various points of view: «We are always the same, but what changes is the type of opponent, as well as the prospect of playing a hypothetical “good” away match. As for Smartsystem, it is an excellent team: in addition to developing good volleyball, it has changes and solutions. In short, it is particularly equipped. But it is inevitable that this is the case in a playoff semi-final.”
GRINDING THE TEETH – To qualify, the Rhinos will have to overturn the field factor: «It will be important to grit your teeth in moments of suffering, because there will be some, when faced with an opponent who plays great within friendly walls. We know, we will find a “very hot” arena: when the emotional drive drags the home team, it is our duty to remain united, compact and engaged in the match. As we did in Calabria, where the group showed courage. Because, 9 points down, the easiest thing is to fall. And instead, at 19-10, a comeback began that I have no hesitation in calling extraordinary.”
AWAY – Away from the Dolomites, Bisi and his teammates boast a streak of six consecutive victories: «Away from home or at the Spes Arena it doesn’t make that much difference. Certainly, in Belluno we have the extra push from the public, but even away from home our team confirmed that it has significant values.” The air is electric: «The kids experience the situation with enthusiasm, desire, awareness. And also with the necessary “garra” and the right light-heartedness.”
