(03/02/2002)
Although without a match due to the postponement of their clash with London Docklands, Riga can still enjoy the fruits of this weekend’s National League Division One programme. Second-placed Portsmouth are at home to champions-elect Malory knowing that any slip-up will give Riga the edge in the battle for that coveted second slot.
While Riga were ending Leeds’ hopes of survival in the top flight a fortnight ago, Pompey were capitulating in dramatic style to Aquila. That loss eliminated the points gap between the two sides, giving Portsmouth the edge only on sets difference. Further defeat at the hands of the perennial Champions will narrow that gap even further. Then victory for Riga in March when the two sides meet at the St. Nicholas Park Leisure Centre, Warwick, will see them in control as the season climaxes.
"Every match is vital for us now," says skipper Tom Young. "To see other teams falling by the wayside makes our job a bit easier but the pressure then mounts on us not to choke. Finishing third would still be a great achievement for us but second is the real prize and that’s what we’re all shooting for."
With the Men taking a break, Riga’s Women’s Division Three side can step into the limelight. However their recent trip to Dorking did not exactly leave them basking in glory. Back-to-back defeats against their hosts, Ashcombe, and Chiltern left the girls with a long trip home and a lot to think about. Whilst the loss to promotion-chasing Ashcombe was the more predictable outcome, defeat by Chiltern was a distinct case of throwing the match away. Two-nil up and playing well, the team seemed destined for victory. Then as Riga eased up, Chiltern lifted their game and the next two sets.
Recovering from 4 – 0 down, Riga clawed their way back into the sudden death fifth set. At 13 apiece it was anyone’s match, but with the Chiltern nerve holding at the crucial times, it was they who triumphed in a remarkable comeback.
"All of us are gutted after that," remarked coach Sarah Halling afterwards. "We were given a lesson in winning today. It wasn’t very pleasant but it’s one we’ve got to learn if we’re going to improve."