Irina Voronkova guides Russia for second home-win oer Belgium
Kaliningrad, Russia, July 15, 2017 - The national teams of Russia and Belgium met in Yantarniy Sporthall for the second year in a row in the frame of the FIVB World Grand Prix, and again the host team didn’t let the guests win even one set. The match ended with a three-set triumph for the Russian team (26-24, 25-14, 25-22).
This year the teams came to Kaliningrad with renewed compositions, that included many young players. The Russian team includec Irina Voronkova – daughter of the famous volleyball coach Andrey Voronkov, who led the Russian Men’s National Team to victory in the FIVB Volleyball World League and the European Championship in 2013. Ksenia Parubets – daughter of Olympic Champion, winner of the World and European Championships - Irina Ilchenko, and Irina Fetisova – daughter of famous basketball player Andrey Fetisov.
At the beginning of the first set, Russia were ahead of their opponents, and after Belgium served out of bounds, the teams went into the first technical timeout (8-4). Belgium tried not to lag behind, and levelled the score (12-12). It seemed as if Russia was teasing Belgium, allowing to draw nearer, but then again going ahead.
After a powerful attack by Frolova, the teams went for the second technical timeout. A video challenge on a block touch gave the 22nd point to Russia. When it seemed to be a set ball, Belgium decided to take time out. Belgium continued to resist and then Elise Van Sas came to the service zone to tie the score (24-24). Frolova’s attacks put a stamp on the set.
The second set started with a long rally that was interrupted by Britt Herbots’ spike. Russia sped up, and fought 5 points in a row, forcing the head coach of Belgium to take a second time out at 6-1. Irina Voronkova’s several points on the serve made the crowded stands happy and raised smiles on the face of her father, watching the match with the spectators. The second set finished with an 11 point gap in favour of Russia 25-14.
In the last set, Belgium were concentrated and tried to show their best volleyball, but Russia attacked strongly and continued to keep their distances. After several match points Frolova made a strong attack and the match came to an end with the victory of the host team.