Report written by Clare Francis

Riga mens regional team had a West Midlands league clash against SBVC this weekend at Centre AT7 in Coventry. Both teams are undefeated in the league so far, so it was all to play for.

The game proved to be neck and neck as the teams traded points in the first set. Some strong serving from Dan combined with good hitting by Chris and Florian saw Riga just edge ahead. However, SBVC fought back and after a technical time out came back with a strong run of serves and before long Riga found themselves trailing the visitors. Good blocking from Tom S and Peter kept Riga in the game, but wasn't quite enough to convert the set, as SBVC took the set 25-23.

Riga changed the line up and went out fighting in the second set. Good hitting from Tom Y and some excellent pick ups on the back court saw Riga take an early lead. A rotation fault meant that the team lost its stride and a run of points as SBVC capitalised on the team's confusion. Riga got back into their stride but it was too little too late and SBVC took the set.

Determined to make it a five setter, Riga took to the court with strong serving and good hitting by all. Andy C started to find the middle attack and Riga killed the ball point after point. SBVC were forced to call a time out at 6-1. And a well called time out it was - SBVC came back to the court and chipped away at Riga's lead until the team's were level pegging. At the next technical time out SBVC were ahead. Some excellent defensive play by Florian and Tom Y allowed Andy to find his hitters as Riga fought back. However, strong jump serving from SBVC enabled them to take the set and the game.

Riga's return visit to SBVC later in the season is sure to be a closely fought contest.