Round 20 of the SMS Grup Efeler Ligi delivered thrilling action, with league leader Ziraat Bankkart securing another dominant win, while Arkas Spor pulled off a major upset against Galatasaray HDI Sigorta.
Ziraat Bankkart Dominates to Maintain Lead
Ziraat Bankkart continued their impressive form with a 3-0 sweep over Rams Global Cizre Bld. (25-18, 25-21, 25-15). This victory strengthens their grip on the top spot as they push forward in the championship race.
Arkas Shocks Galatasaray in a Major Upset
The biggest surprise of the week came from Arkas Spor, who defeated a heavily reinforced Galatasaray HDI Sigorta 3-1 (25-23, 25-27, 25-16, 25-19).
Despite Galatasaray’s recent signings, they struggled to find their rhythm, while veteran star György Grozer delivered a stellar performance, scoring 28 points (53% attack, 3 aces, 4 blocks) to lead Arkas to victory. On the opposing side, Jean Patry was Galatasaray’s top scorer with 22 points.
Head coach Glenn Hoag once again proved his tactical brilliance, keeping Arkas competitive despite limited resources. His success highlights the importance of strong coaching in modern volleyball.
Halkbank and Fenerbahçe Secure Convincing Wins
- Halkbank defeated TÜRŞAD in straight sets (3-0, 25-22, 25-22, 25-16). Dick Kooy played a key role, contributing 14 points, and emphasized the need for consistency: “If we keep playing like this, we can continue winning.”
- Fenerbahçe Medicana dominated On Hotels Alanya Bld., also winning 3-0 (25-17, 25-17, 25-23). Kaan Gürbüz (16 points) and Yiğit Gülmezoğlu (12 points) led the way to their 12th league victory.
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Week 20 Results:
- Ziraat Bankkart – Rams Global Cizre Bld.: 3-0 (25-18, 25-21, 25-15)
- Halkbank – TÜRŞAD: 3-0 (25-22, 25-22, 25-16)
- Fenerbahçe Medicana – On Hotels Alanya Bld.: 3-0 (25-17, 25-17, 25-23)
- Arkas Spor – Galatasaray HDI Sigorta: 3-1 (25-23, 25-27, 25-16, 25-19)
- İstanbul Gençlik Spor – Kuşgöz İzmir Vinç Akkuş Bld.: 3-1 (25-22, 19-25, 25-19, 27-25)
- Bursa BBSK – Spor Toto: 1-3 (30-28, 19-25, 13-25, 22-25)