In one of the most thrilling matches of the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia, Chennai Blitz emerged victorious over Goa Guardians in a pulsating five-set contest at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium.
The Blitz triumphed 12-15, 15-11, 11-15, 18-16, 15-13, with Jerome Vinith named the Player of the Match for his all-round brilliance in attack and leadership under pressure.
The evening had an added touch of prestige as Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra graced the venue, interacting with the players and adding a touch of inspiration before the match began.
Momentum Swings and Fine Margins
The match was a showcase of intensity, tactical shifts, and momentum swings with both sides refusing to give an inch. Goa started brightly, capitalising on Prince’s dominance at the net and consistent service pressure from Jeffrey Menzel, taking the opening set 15-12.
Chennai, however, found their rhythm through Tarun Gowda K, whose thunderous super serve lifted the team’s spirits. As Jerome Vinith began to fire, Chennai levelled the scores with a composed 15-11 second-set win, marked by sharper defence and more controlled serves.
The third set saw Goa Guardians regain control, with Nathaniel Dickinson and Menzel combining effectively while skipper Chirag led a disciplined backline. Prince’s timely blocks once again swung momentum towards Goa, helping them clinch the set 15-11 and retake the lead.
Chennai’s Fightback
With their semifinal hopes hanging in the balance, Chennai Blitz responded with tremendous resilience. Luiz Felipe Perotto turned the tide with a crucial super serve late in the fourth set. Despite Goa’s early advantage, Chennai clawed their way back, saving two set points before edging a tense 18-16 win forcing a decider.
The fifth set was volleyball at its finest fast, furious, and unpredictable. Dickinson’s super point gave Goa an early edge, but Chennai’s defensive duo Suraj Chaudhary and Aditya Rana held firm. Jerome, leading from the front, delivered a fierce smash to bring the Blitz level before Goa countered through Dickinson again.
In the dying moments, Chennai held their nerve. Perotto and Suraj combined for a crucial block on Chirag, sealing a famous 15-13 victory and sparking jubilation in the Blitz camp.
A Match to Remember
The contest encapsulated everything the Prime Volleyball League stands for fine margins, tactical brilliance, and sheer sporting drama. Goa, who had looked in control for long stretches, were left ruing late unforced errors, while Chennai’s grit and composure under pressure defined their memorable comeback.
With this win, Chennai Blitz not only strengthened their position in the league table but also sent a strong message to the rest of the competition they are a team that thrives under fire.
Final Score: Chennai Blitz bt Goa Guardians 12-15, 15-11, 11-15, 18-16, 15-13
Player of the Match: Jerome Vinith
