CHENNAI: Customs had won two of its league clashes, while Spikers had lost two and was pushed into a must-win situation
After having lost two close encounters, Chennai Spikers regrouped well to stun holder Customs Recreation Club (Chennai) 25-18, 23-25, 25-17 in a men’s Group A league fixture of the 65th State senior volleyball championship.
However, both teams enjoyed the privilege of a quarterfinal berth by virtue of a better points cushion on the table.
Customs had won two of its league clashes, while Spikers had lost two and was pushed into a must-win situation.
Spikers attacked with vigour and the Customs men were shaken for the first time in the championship. Their defence went awry and Spikers cashed in on the chance to take the first set 25-18.
In the second set, Customs was better prepared. From a sticky situation it worked its way up to a 25-23 win.
At this juncture, Nazeem Nazib rose to the occasion for Spikers. So did Sheik Mohammed (all-rounder), Mallikesh Kumar (libero) and K. Gokul. They put the pressure on Customs right through to wrap up the set and match 25-17.