In the third match of the third place playoff match of the Italian Men's Volleyball League, Yuki Ishikawa's Milan team faced Trentino on Wednesday, April 24th (local time) and won 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-14).
Ishikawa contributed to the victory with 18 points, the most for both teams, and was selected as MVP.
Post-match interview with Yuki Ishikawa
Toshiki: Congratulations on your victory.
Ishikawa: Thank you.
Toshiki: How do you feel looking back on today's game?
Ishikawa: In the first and second sets, the score was close, but I was able to win firmly, so I think the third set was also good.
Toshiki: This was a slate victory after two matches went to full sets, but what do you think was the reason for your straight win?
Ishikawa: Our serves were good, and our block defense was working well. We also scored well when we needed to, so I think we managed to hold on even in difficult situations. As for the third set, I think the momentum came from the serve of our setter, Paolo (Porro), so I think that was it.
Toshiki: What did you think of Ishikawa's individual performance?
Ishikawa: It wasn't bad. I was able to make the shots because I was able to get the ball in line with the tosses better than in the previous two matches. The ball came in at a good time, so I was able to make the shots, and I'm glad that this led to a good result.
Toshiki: As was the case in the second game, Milan's block switch tactic (a tactic in which the blockers switch positions to match the opposing attacker) seemed to work in today's game as well.
Ishikawa: Yes, we have players who are good at blocking, such as the opposite player, so we used them well. My blocking and that of Paolo (Porro) are not very good. But I think it worked a little today.
Toshiki: We are now one win away from reaching third place and qualifying for next season's Champions League. Please say a few words ahead of the next match.
Ishikawa: I think it will be another difficult game, and I think Trento (Trentino) probably didn't feel too good about losing today, so I'm sure he'll switch his mindset and come back with a lot of enthusiasm. I want to use this short period of time to prepare well so that we can bounce back, and since the next game is at home, I want to fight with momentum.
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