The Latvian national side took the opportunity while in this country for the Pan European Cup, to come to Warwick to play a warm-up game, and to pay special tribute to Riga who were founded nearly 50 years ago by their exiled countrymen.
It was a particularly nostalgic occasion for Riga club president Zano Musins who was one of the founder members just after the war. he was presented to the players who were also welcomed by the Chairman of Warwick District Council, Councillor Bob Wooller.
A crowd of nearly 100 watched Latvia win the game by three sets to nil. Despite raising their game, and competing hard, Riga - who play In National League Division One - were always under pressure.
"We did our best and can be proud of that" said Young. "When we did something good they matched, or bettered it! There was no let up and as soon as we dropped our guard they were in there taking points off us.
Riga will hope to put the experience to good use tomorrow (Saturday) when they entertain Sheffield in the last league fixture of the season(6pm).
The Warwick side have already made sure of retaining their Division One place - the first Riga team to stay in the top flight on merit. With the pressure off they can relax - which is more than their first time visitors can do.
The young Sheffield team, in their first Div One campaign, are almost certain to finish in tenth place, and that will mean having to face relegation play-offs.
*We want to end the season on a high, with a stylish win* said Riga skipper Young. "We aim to give the crowd something to cheer. Having seen us through some ups and downs..."
ZANO MUSINS - Warwick Riga's president who renewed poignant links with his homeland at St Nicholas Park.
