Rana Verona opened their SuperLega Credem Banca playoff semifinal campaign in emphatic fashion, securing a straight-sets victory over Cucine Lube Civitanova in front of more than 5,000 fans at the Pala AGSM AIM.
The home side took control of the match after edging a dramatic first set, which extended to 34-32 and marked one of the highest-scoring sets of the season. From that point on, Verona maintained composure and efficiency, closing out the next two sets with identical 25-21 scores to seal a convincing 3-0 win and take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Leading the charge was Noumory Keita, who earned MVP honors with 15 points, including three aces. He was well supported by Darlan Ferreira Souza (13 points) and Rok Možič (11).
For Lube Volley Civitanova, Aleksandar Nikolov led all scorers with 20 points, while Mattia Bottolo added 10.
Game 2 is set for April 8, with Civitanova aiming to respond on home court. The other semifinal begins on April 6, as Sir Susa Vim Perugia face Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza.
Result:
Rana Verona – Cucine Lube Civitanova 3-0 (34-32, 25-21, 25-21)
