A derby in every sense of the word was tonight between AEL and Anorthosis. The two teams kept pace in the first set, with AEL not losing the lead at any point. In the middle of the set, the blue and yellows built a significant difference that even reached +6 (17-11), but Anorthosis reduced to one point (20-19). But in the end the host was superior and won the first set 25-22.
In the second set, AEL had the initiative, opening the difference twice to +5 (9-4 and 13-8), but the guests found a way for both to approach the score, to finally equalize at 14-14 . The team of Limassol gradually brought the difference to +4 (22-18), however the blue and whites did not put it down and with a series of 5-0 they took the lead for the first time in the game and then the set, with a dramatic finale. The guests had a set point at 23-24, which they did not take advantage of and AEL took the upper hand with 25-24. However, the "Ladies" found the mental reserves and with a "weapon" the block got three consecutive points and the set with 27-25, bringing the match to a draw.
In the third set, Anorthosis was the team that came in stronger and had the lead in the score that reached +3 (2-5). Soon, however, AEL recovered and led 8-7. Then, both teams kept pace in the score. After 13-13, Anorthosis took a serious lead with 20-16 and then the set with 25-20 for 2-1.
AEL responded with the same coin in the fourth set. Both teams kept pace in the score and whenever one opened the gap a little, the other came back quickly, making the game unpredictable. In the last stages, however, the players of the Limassol team were calmer, took the set 25-21, made it 2-2 and gave new interest to the match.
AEL entered the tiebreak more decisively, and with a strong attack and amazing defense led 8-4. Anorthosis tried to react and reduced to two (8-6). However, the blue and yellows showed more passion, maintained the lead in their favor and with 15-10 took the victory with 3-2 sets celebrating the conquest of the championship.
Source: ShootangGoal.com.cy