Matt Anderson with WoV footwear bag
The whole World League campaign gathered in just one game, how difficult was it to bear that enormous pressure of a must-win match?
“It was really difficult. We had a nice advantage before coming to Belgrade. We needed only couple of sets to qualify, but we were not focused enough in the first match. If we had won it, we could have rested some players in the second game, but we failed. Luckily, our team chemistry is excellent and we stayed together, kept fighting for every point and at the end collected a very important team victory.”
Atmosphere in Belgrade was very hot, however it seemed that crowd did not bother you?
“Oh, the atmosphere was amazing. I just love that. I have been playing volleyball for six years as a pro, and I love when I literally can’t hear myself while serving.“
Do you see yourself as a favorite on the Final Six of the World league 2014?
“We are playing well. Even when we don’t, we find a way to win which suggests that our team has strong character. This is the tournament of the best teams in the world… But we are going to Florence to win it.”
We decided to use this opportunity to ask Anderson something about Zenit as well. How are you feeling in Kazan?
“Club has a high level organization. Also, we have a great coach Alekno who had played volleyball before and understands our mind set. I am very happy in Zenit and I believe that club is happy with me. I still have a one year in my contract, we will see what will happen afterward.”
What about language barrier? Did you have problems when you arrived in Russia?
“The first season is always the toughest one. You don’t know anyone, so you have to gain their trust. And you do that by working hard. Volleyball is my passion. It makes me hit the ball stronger, work harder… Makes me wanna be with it anywhere in the world.”
Finally, you still haven’t won the Champions League with Zenit… Will that be your main goal in the next season?
“My goal is just to win. Whether it is Russian Championship, Cup or the Champions League. There is a huge amount of pressure, but that is how players grow. You have to be mentally strong. Russian players are especially good on that field. When they lose a point, they do not think about it, but focus on the next one. I think the same way…”
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