Chennai: Kochi Blue Spikers secured a first win of the Prime Volleyball League in their final game of the campaign against Hyderabad Black Hawks here on Saturday. Jibin Sebastian was the star for the Blue Spikers in a 15-12, 15-12, 15-11 win.
The Kochi side finished with one win and seven defeats from eight games.
Unforced errors hurt the Hawks, and Aman Kumar's aggressive serves gave Kochi an early momentum. Jibin and Erin controlled attacks from the lines, while Aman continued to spike from the middle to help Kochi. Ashamat Ullah's play from the service line helped the Hawks storm back, but Athos' blocks contained Hyderabad's attacks and Kochi took an early lead.
Om Vasanth Lad showcased his firing power from the service line as the Blues continued to dominate. Stefan Kovacevic came alive in the second half to provide the Hawks an edge in defence. But Athos led three-man block shackled Hyderabad's attacks. Despite Sahil Kumar earning his side a super point, Kochi controlled the play to remain on course to their first win.
Jibin kept testing Hyderabad's blockers with strong spikes, and the Hawks did not help themselves with unforced errors. Hyderabad's receiving on the night left a lot to be desired with Om hurt the opposition with thunderous serves.
