Fairfield beat Hillgrove 2-0 in U-16 volleyball

Story by REDintern Rachel Ariel Lim. Photos by Lai Jun Wei/Red Sports.

Hougang Sports Hall, Thursday, October 30, 2008 – Fairfield Methodist beat Hillgrove 2-0 (25-20, 26-24) in a closely fought Group B Match at the 2008 National Under-16 Boys Junior Volleyball Championships.

It was initially a tight game. But the lead eventually fell into the hands of Fairfield who started exhibiting better play work. Hillgrove were able to take the lead from Fairfield and hold a one-point advantage at 14-15. However, fatigue seemed to be setting in early on Hillgrove, as Fairfield organised themselves to take the set 25-20.

The second set saw Hillgrove put up an amazing comeback. They had established a six point lead over Fairfield at 14-20. Things looked set to go into the rubber after a touch out by Fairfield gave Hillgrove another point. However, tight blocking by Kenneth (Fairfield, #7) and Edwin (#11) saw many Hillgrove spikes being successful blocked. The morale of Fairfield was boosted and they caught up quick.

Towards the end of the set, both teams battled closely. Each team made less errors, put up a better defence and showing a strong and brighter attitude. Hillgrove saw their lead turn into a the time of crisis as Fairfield drew 23-23. It was a fantastic display of attacks and defensive work by both teams.

Having the desperate need to end it all and conclude victory, Edwin (Fairfield, #11) surprised all as he came in ended the game with perfectly tuned zeal and skill. Power is not revealed by striking hard or often, but by striking true. It certainly displayed the desire to win and snatch the game back by winning the nail-biting scenario.

Final score: 2-0 (25-20, 26-24)

Editor’s note: If you recognise yourself or your team mates in any of the photos, please feel free to leave the names behind in the comments section and we will update the captions accordingly. Thanks!