The Ukrainian U22 Women`s Volleyball squad has successfully navigated the qualification path in Daugavpils, Latvia, decisively booking their ticket to the upcoming EuroVolley Final Round. The tournament, set to take place in the Netherlands, will feature Ukraine following two impressive victories in their qualification group.
The Road to Qualification: Two Wins, One Goal
Ukraine`s campaign in Daugavpils was straightforward and effective. Their mission was clear: secure two wins to guarantee qualification. They achieved this with clinical precision.
The first step was taken on Saturday with a commanding 3-0 victory over Denmark. The set scores of 25-12, 25-23, and 25-12 reflect a match largely controlled by the Ukrainian side. Andriana Pavlyk was particularly impactful, leading the scoring charge with 21 points, significantly boosted by her potent serves. Diana Kryva also contributed strongly with 16 points, setting a high standard for the team`s offensive output from the outset.
Decisive Encounter Against Hosts Latvia
With one win under their belt, Ukraine faced the home team, Latvia, on Sunday at the Daugavpils Olympic Centre. A victory here would finalize their qualification. While Latvia, spurred by the home crowd, offered spirited resistance, Ukraine ultimately prevailed with a 3-1 scoreline (25-22, 25-19, 22-25, 25-16).
The first set saw Latvia grab an early lead, but Ukraine quickly asserted control, building a comfortable margin. Latvia, powered by the dynamic Struka sisters, mounted a strong comeback, tying the score at 22-22. However, Ukraine held their composure in the crucial final points to take the set 25-22.
Maintaining their momentum, Ukraine dominated the second set, establishing an early lead that Latvia couldn`t overcome despite their best efforts. The 25-19 set win put Ukraine on the brink of qualification.
Having secured the necessary two sets for qualification, Ukraine made several substitutions in the third set. This shift in personnel, perhaps coupled with the psychological relief of achieving their primary goal, allowed Latvia to seize the initiative. The hosts capitalized on the opportunity, taking the third set 25-22 after a miscommunication on the Ukrainian side – a moment that perhaps serves as a reminder that focus must be maintained until the very end, even when the immediate objective is met.
Normal service resumed in the fourth set. Ukraine quickly established a lead, demonstrating their superior depth and determination to finish the match decisively. They closed out the set 25-16, securing the match and solidifying their place at the top of the group standings.
Key Contributors on the Court
For Latvia, Katrīna Struka was the undeniable leader, finishing with 17 points against Ukraine, including impressive attacking efficiency and three blocks. Her sister, Karmena Struka, added 10 points, notably through three aces. Marta Gintere contributed 9 points.
Ukraine`s scoring against Latvia was led by Diana Kryva with 17 points. Andriana Pavlyk added 14 points, continuing her strong performance from the Denmark match. Polina Herasymchuk contributed 12 points, with a notable third of her points coming from successful blocks – a testament to her technical presence at the net.
Coaches Reflect on the Tournament
Latvia`s Head Coach Inguna Minusa viewed the tournament as a highly valuable experience for her young team, particularly the exposure gained against stronger opponents. She highlighted that the matches underscored the necessity of consistent focus in modern volleyball.
Ukrainian Head Coach Gariy Yegiazarov confirmed the strategic importance of securing the first two sets against Latvia for qualification. He expressed satisfaction with the performance of his substitute players in the third set and acknowledged the challenge presented by the experienced Struka sisters on the Latvian side.
With a perfect record of two wins and six points, Ukraine finished atop the qualification group, leaving Denmark with two points and Latvia with one. The team now looks forward to competing against Europe`s best U22 squads in the Final Round in the Netherlands, a well-deserved reward for their strong performance in Daugavpils.
