Zenit-Kazan claimed a vital road win over Lokomotiv Novosibirsk, edging a five-set thriller to take a 2–1 lead in their Superliga semifinal series.
The match swung repeatedly as both sides traded momentum. Zenit edged a closely contested first set, with Maksim Mikhaylov converting key points late on. Lokomotiv answered in dominant fashion in the second set, putting the visitors under heavy pressure with powerful serving.
Zenit regrouped to take control in the third, but the hosts, backed by strong home support, fought back to win a dramatic fourth set and force a decider.
In the tie-break, Zenit proved more composed, capitalizing on Lokomotiv’s errors while maintaining efficiency in attack. Mikhaylov once again led the way as the defending champions closed out the match.
Game 4 is scheduled for April 12 in Novosibirsk, where Zenit can secure a place in the final. Lokomotiv must win to extend the series.
Result:
Lokomotiv Novosibirsk – Zenit-Kazan 2–3 (27–29, 25–13, 20–25, 27–25, 9–15)
Series: 1–2
