Northumbria University M1 Volleyball sailed past University of Sheffield to kick off a tricky week of fixtures in style.
The home team rarely looked troubled as they cruised to a straight sets victory for the fourth time this season.
“It was clearly in our hands,” said head of volleyball Dave Goodchild. “It was a professional performance.
“I was impressed by the availability of our middles and our setters for the pipe.”
The coach was clearly pleased with the ease in which an under-strength Northumbria team were able to dispatch Sheffield.
“We only had seven players today due to injuries and rest in preparation for the demanding week ahead,” added Goodchild “It was a steady team performance and we’re moving forward.”
Wednesday’s game marked the start of a tough week for the men’s volleyball set up, with two long away games in the Super 8s at the weekend.
First up, on Saturday, is Polonia, an anticipated fixture every year for the sheer atmosphere they create.
Twenty-four hours later Northumbria travel further south for the Wessex game in Bournemouth.
“The Polonia games are always tough and there will be 500 fans with drums and banners,” added Goodchild. “It’s intense.
“The travel is something else we have to factor in. But I feel like we’re heading in the right direction.”
Northumbria’s victory against Sheffield was especially impressive coming just a fortnight after a disappointing fifth set defeat to Durham University in BUCS Premier North.
“We’ve bounced back well from that result and we’re looking forward to our chance at revenge,” added Goodchild.
“We have a good culture here and we try to create as much positive energy as possible.
“We all want to get better and better as a lot of these lads will be aiming to play professionally after this.”
Jack Surtees
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