Readings’ men team has been galvanized

Readings’ men team has been galvanized by a superb weekend of National League volleyball-the victories over Oxford University and Bristol was a manifestation of their huge potential in this years’ competitions-BUSA, EVA Student Cup and NVL. The performances of last year, most notably Berkshire league and cup winners, beckoned a new challenge-so when the EVA invited them to play semi-pro volleyball, Nick Kritsilis, the executive of RUVC could not refuse. With the backing of UPP-Reading Student Village and the leadership and tireless enthusiasm of Head Coach Rob McMenamin, Reading are on the cusp of something special.

Bristol hosted the one-day triangular which saw Reading arrive with a full-strength squad. The return of Italian setter and team captain Emanuel Balsamo bolstered the teams’ confidence as they faced Oxford, previously undefeated. Reading started imperiously- a feature of this squad is its power play. Hitters like Cypriot international Alex Constantinos and ex-polish league giant Tomasz S, were ruthless. Oxford could not deal with the quick tempo play of playmaker Balsamo (MVP), feeding middle hitters Tom Jones and Ryan Jones, to great effect. Reading took the first set convincingly, but due to the team’s lack of consistency at this early stage of the season, went on to lose the 2nd and 4th sets. The tiebreaker was a nervous affair, but Reading showed great character under immense pressure to pull through a 15-11 victory. The players were overjoyed after such an emotionally and mentally draining match. It was an awesome spectacle and the crowd stood to their feet in appreciation of the marathon contest.

As soon as they defeated Oxford, Reading were to play Bristol. Having lost the first set through complacency, McMenamin was quick sharp to set his players straight. Opposite player, Sergio Righoletto’s agile and speed hits across court left Bristol in disarray. Libero, Umut Calkam, was responsible for the solid passing unit and defence pick-ups. First-year Oliver Howe came off the bench and impressed. It proved to be an emphatic win and it sealed 6 crucial points in what now must be a title race.

Reading hope to continue good form this weekend when they host the first BUSA tournament on Sunday at Wolfeden. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the volleyball all day from 10am. Reading face bitter rivals University of London and Kent amongst others in a crucial qualifying round for the play-offs.