In the fifth match of the second half of the Italian men's volleyball league Serie A, 11th-placed Padova, where Takahashi Ai plays, played against 10th-placed Taranto at home on Sunday, January 22nd local time, and won 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-20).
After the match, we spoke with Padova's libero, Julian Zenger (Germany).
-How do you feel looking back on today's game?
Zenger: Today's game was very important for us. Of course, the next game (against Siena) is also very important. We were very focused in the side-out situations and were very strong throughout the game. We made few mistakes. We had some problems with the break, but if we had defended better, we could have scored more points, increased the lead over our opponents, and played in a more relaxed state. Still, I'm very happy that we were able to play like this today.
What was the reason for your victory today?
Zenger: Our serves were very strong and we were able to put a lot of pressure on our opponents' receptions. Our serves contributed a lot. We were always able to get two or three steps ahead of our opponents at key moments. For example, at the end of the second set, Lan served well and we were able to take a two or three point lead. I think it was a big factor that we were able to score two or three consecutive points before the end of the set.
-What kind of player do you think Takahashi Ai is?
Zenger: He's a great player. Technically, he's one of the best players. He's very young and plays great, but when we play and practice together, he's always smiling and having fun, so I think that's also a great thing about him. He's still really young, so I think he has a big future ahead of him.
-As a libero, what do you think about Takahashi's defense?
Zenger: I don't think my technique is that bad either (laughs), but it's easy to play with him. He and I can cover a wide area, so especially during receptions, we can reduce the burden on the other outside hitter and allow him to focus more on the attack, and we aim to do that together during the game.
Photo: PallavoloPadova
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