In the third match of the second half of the Italian men's volleyball league Serie A, 11th-placed Padova, where Takahashi Ai plays, played against 6th-placed Cisterna at home on Sunday, January 8th local time, and won 3-2 (17-25, 19-25, 25-21, 25-20, 15-12).
After the match, Padova's Davide Saitta gave us a comment.
-How do you feel looking back on today's game?
Saitta: I'm very happy. We were doing very poorly in the first two sets, but our bench players turned the tide. Asparuhov, Volpato, and even Gardini on serve. Still, the situation was tough, but we persevered in defense and won the third set, and then the fourth and fifth sets. I think it's very valuable for us to have such a great victory today.
-Why do you think the substitute players were able to perform so well today?
Saitta: Because they practiced well and were ready to help the guys on the court. I was especially happy with Asparuhov's performance, because he hasn't been on the court for a long time. We need the whole team, so I'm very happy that our bench members performed like this today.
-You've been playing alongside the Japanese player Ai Takahashi so far. What do you think of him?
Saitta: Ai is amazing. He plays hard every day, and he's very smart, a nice guy, and a good player. I love playing with him. He's a great person and a great player, so I hope he continues to do well.
-You're another one...
Saitta: Nishida. Another great player. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate him on his marriage. I heard that he married Koga. I wish them all the best. I love the Japanese people, so I would like to play with them.
--What are the differences between Takahashi and Nishida?
Saitta: (Nishida) Yuji is more expressive and emotional, while Ai is more focused. Either way, he is great. Japanese style players are very good. I love them.
--Who do you like better, Takahashi or Nishida? (laughs) Takahashi once said, "I think Saitta likes me more than Arushi (laughs)." (laughs)
Saitta: Of course I love Ai (laughs). But of course I also had a good relationship with Ushi. They are young and come from abroad, so I try to support them like an older brother. Ushi played last season, and Ai this season. They are both amazing guys. I love playing with them.
Photo: Author, Lega Pallavolo Serie A
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