In a thrilling 19th-round PlusLiga clash, Barkom Każany Lwów defeated Asseco Resovia Rzeszów 3-2 in Rzeszów. The underdogs, ranked second-to-last before the match, secured a stunning victory against the eighth-placed hosts, claiming two invaluable points.
Match Highlights
Despite early struggles, Resovia forced a tie-break after losing the first two sets (23-25, 17-25). However, Barkom clinched the decider 16-14, with Ilia Kovalov’s standout performance earning him the MVP title. Kovalov scored 18 points alongside Lorenzo Pope, while Vasyl Tupchii led Barkom with 22 points. Resovia’s Klemen Čebulj topped the scoring charts with 24 points, supported by Stephen Boyer’s 13, but it wasn’t enough.
Key Developments
- Barkom overcame adversity, losing their primary setter, Deniss Petrovs, to an ankle injury during warmups. Replacement Santeri Valimaa stepped up admirably.
- Resovia fielded Adrian Staszewski for the injured Lukas Vasina, but struggles in attack (4/18, 22% successful attempts) hindered their efforts.
- Bartosz Bednorz returned from injury for a brief appearance but was unable to make a significant impact.
Turning Points
Barkom’s efficient offense in the first two sets, with over 60% attack success rates from key players, set the tone. Resovia’s improved serving in the third and fourth sets pressured Barkom, but the visitors held their nerve in the tie-break with strong serving at critical moments.
Implications for the Table
This victory moves Barkom to 14th place with 13 points and five wins this season, including previous away upsets against top teams of Częstochowa and Jastrzębski Węgiel.
Meanwhile, Resovia’s ongoing struggles raise questions about their roster and management decisions, as the team continues to underperform despite high expectations.
Final Scoreline:
Asseco Resovia Rzeszów 2–3 Barkom Każany Lwów (23-25, 17-25, 25-20, 25-21, 14-16)
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