Report written by London Lynx

London Lynx won their opening match of the season against Coventry & Warwick Riga in straight sets at
Whitechapel SC on Sunday. The 3-0 score sheet belied a tense match during which the visitors matched Lynx point
for point. Lynx took a few rotations to find their pace, with the first two serves finding the net and an overzealous
first spike missing the court, but strong hits from both sides soon saw the scores close.

A spike from Diego Caielli equalised for Lynx at 19-19 and the home team took control of the remainder of the set.
A massive block by setter Andrew Bignold lifted the score to 21-19 and rattled Riga who called a time out. Ed

Ekanem, who was subbed on in the closing minutes to strengthen Lynx's front line, hit through Riga's
defence. Caielli finished off the first set with a tip over the block to win 25-20.

However, Lynx failed to capitalise on their momentum, trailing Riga 12-6 in the first half of the second set. A time
out and pep talk by Coach Al Karakoc refocused the team who came straight back with a strong pick up and ace by
Jalal El Achkar. The team rallied with outside hitter Antonio Codrington breaking even at 14-14 with a fast hit down
Riga's line. Lynx held onto the lead to win the second set 25-22.

A close run third set saw the two teams match each other point for point, but Lynx held their nerve bringing
the match to a close 25-20, 25-22, 25-23.

The win was a positive start - and finish - to the season for Codrington who is due to undergo a hip operation on
Wednesday that will put him out of action for the rest of the year.