Ziraat Bankkart rallied from two sets down to defeat Galatasaray HDI Sigorta 3-2 in the second match of the SMS Grup Efeler Ligi play-off finals, taking a 2-0 lead in the championship series.
Galatasaray opened strongly at TVF Burhan Felek Vestel Volleyball Hall, claiming the first two sets. The home side appeared in control after building an early advantage.
Ziraat Bankkart, however, responded decisively. The visitors improved their rhythm in attack and tightened their defensive structure to claim the third set, before dominating the fourth to level the contest.
The momentum remained with the Ankara club in the deciding fifth set, where Ziraat Bankkart stayed composed under pressure to complete the reverse sweep and move within one win of the league crown.
Nimir Abdelaziz paced Ziraat Bankkart with 24 points, while Tomasz Fornal added 18 points and Trevor Clevenot finished with 14. Galatasaray was led by Jean Patry with 21 points, while Stephen Maar contributed 16 and Thomas Jaeschke added 11.
Ziraat Bankkart also held the advantage in overall attacking production, recording 58 kill points to Galatasaray’s 47, proving decisive in the closing stages.
The third match of the best-of-five finals series is scheduled for Monday, April 27, at TVF Ziraat Bankkart Volleyball Hall. Ziraat Bankkart can secure the title with another victory, while Galatasaray must win to extend the series.
Result:
Galatasaray HDI Sigorta 2-3 Ziraat Bankkart
(25-23, 25-17, 19-25, 11-25, 9-15)
