Riga start life at the top - on top!

Prosport NVL Division One, 19th September 2004
Tonbridge 0 Warwick Riga I 3 (22-25 17-25 23-25)

Riga's bid to make an impression in the top flight got off to an impressive start with a straight sets win over Tonbridge, who finished mid table last season.

The girls have endured a far stricter training regime a la Young since the end of July, lately moving up to twice a week and there's no doubt that this paid dividends at the weekend. In all three sets Riga flew into an early lead but each time allowed Tonbridge back in. However at no point did Riga weaken and they always seemed in control keeping a safe margin between them and the opposition. Nicky Jones has provided a steadying influence especially on back court. Together with Laura Hodgkinson and Jules, Riga's service receive is looking pretty awesome.

Yaprak was Tonbridge's vote for player of the match as they had no reply to some incredible line hits courtesy of the Turkish ex-international. Captain, Sally Keate's form has improved significantly during the off season and she too put in a very solid performance through the outside.

Yaprak Rogers: Player of the Match
Tonbridge upped the anti in the final set but Riga responded well to the pressure and some clever tactical play from Gulshan helped to seal the win.
Coach, Tom Young, was delighted with the team's performance "It's an excellent start to the season and will give us confidence for future matches. It will also send out a message to other teams in the division that we're not going to be an easy target".
The girls travel down to Wessex this Saturday. Wessex trounced fellow promotees Tameside last weekend so will be aiming to make the double. However Riga are out for revenge for their close cup defeat last season and even though Yaprak will not be available, the team now has enough depth to give Wessex a run for their money.

Liz Young