VfB Suhl made a strong start to its playoff semifinal series, beating SSC Palmberg Schwerin 3–1 in the opening match at the Wolfsgrube.
Backed by their home crowd, Suhl came out with more energy and quickly took control of the first set. Hosts built an early lead that Schwerin couldn’t close, taking the set comfortably 25–13.
The second set followed a similar pattern. Schwerin stayed closer early on, but Suhl remained consistent and gradually pulled away again. Their balanced play and fewer errors helped them secure the set 25–16 and move within one set of victory.
Schwerin responded well in the third set, showing more stability and composure. After trailing early, the visitors fought their way back and edged a tight finish 25–23 to extend the match.
In the fourth set, Schwerin carried that momentum and had chances to force a deciding set, holding multiple set points. However, Suhl stayed calm in the key moments, defended well, and took their chances late to turn the set around and close it 26–24.
With the win, Suhl takes a 1–0 lead in the semifinal series.
Result: VfB Suhl – SSC Palmberg Schwerin 3–1 (25:13, 25:16, 23:25, 26:24)
