In their first home match of the 2024/2025 season, ZAKSA Kędzierzyn-Koźle faced a narrow 2:3 defeat against Steam Hemarpol Norwid Częstochowa. Despite a promising start and taking the first set 25:23, ZAKSA struggled to maintain momentum, losing the second and third sets before fighting back to force a tie-break. However, Częstochowa proved too strong in the final set, sealing the match 15:9 and leaving ZAKSA with a hard-fought loss.
Strong Start for ZAKSA
ZAKSA kicked off the match in the Azoty Arena with a solid performance, quickly gaining a 4:1 lead thanks to effective blocking and strong attacks from Mateusz Poręba and Mateusz Rećko. Despite some resistance from Częstochowa, particularly through Indra and Ebadipour, ZAKSA held their nerve and closed the first set 25:23. The team looked composed, with Marcin Janusz orchestrating play well, while Grobelny and Chitigoi added firepower on the wings.
Częstochowa Strikes Back
The second set saw a shift in momentum as Częstochowa capitalized on ZAKSA’s errors, particularly in reception. The visitors took an early 3:1 lead and extended it with a strong service game, led by Adamczyk. ZAKSA’s attempts to rally were thwarted, and Częstochowa won the set comfortably 25:18, tying the match at 1-1. In the third set, Częstochowa continued their dominance, opening up a 10:6 lead and maintaining control to win 25:20, taking a 2-1 lead in the match.
ZAKSA Fights Back but Falls in Tie-Break
Refusing to give up, ZAKSA battled hard in the fourth set, with Grobelny and Rećko leading the charge. Aces from Chitigoi helped ZAKSA edge out a 25:23 win, forcing a tie-break. However, Częstochowa took control early in the final set, racing to a 3:0 lead and maintaining their advantage, eventually winning 15:9. ZAKSA’s effort wasn’t enough to overcome the visitors’ solid defense, and the match ended in favor of Częstochowa, 3:2.
Despite the loss, ZAKSA showed glimpses of strong play and will look to bounce back in their next match.
