G-Rank Spikers of Kachi beat Taraba Spikers in a five set thriller (25-17, 13-25, 25-20, 21-25, 18-16) on Day 5 of the ongoing 2022 National Division 2 Volleyball League in Jalingo, Taraba state on Tuesday.

G-Rank Spikers drew the first blood in the first set winning 25-17 points before the host, Taraba Spikers beat G-Ranks in the second set less than 30 minutes by 25-13.

Both teams filled with youngsters showed resilience in the third set but G-Ranks Spikers went away with 25-20 points. G-Rank led Taraba Spikers by 7 points in the beginning of the fourth set; Taraba Spikers got crucial points and won 25-21.

The fifth set was going in favor of Taraba Spikers before G-Ranks drew level at 14-14 points before winning by 18-16 points.

An elated Coach of G-Rank, Azi Yakubu said, “Winning this match is great for the players, the team and young coaches across trhe country. As you can see, G-Rank presented a young team and I know the confidence level of the team is high now.”

He blamed fatigue for the loss of his second game against Bayonet Spikers adding that Sword VC are beatable.

Yakubu said, “We came in two days after the commencement of the Division 2 League and did not have time to relax. G-Rank lost her first match to CNS Spikers in a walk over and the fatigue set in when we lost to Bayonet Spikers.

“The boys gave their best when they played Adamawa in their third match winning theeir first game of the league. Today, G-Rank played against the Host, Taraba Spikers and her fans at the Jolly Nyame Stadium.

Our next match is with Sword and we are preparing to record another win because they are ready physically and mentally.

In the previous match, league leaders, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Spikers ran riot on Sword VC 3-0 (25-13, 25-11, 25-15).

Day 6 Fixtures:

Plateau Rocks v Adamawa Spikers

Sword VC v G-Rank

CNS Spikers v Bayonet Spikers

All is set for the National Division 2 Volleyball League in Jalingo, Taraba state at the Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo from 22nd to 30th April, 2022.

According to DCP Stephen Hasso (RTD), North East Zonal Representative on the board of Nigeria Volleyball Federation, six men’s teams are expected to battle at the first phase of the Division 2 League.

He said the federation has put in modalities to ensure a successful Division 2 League is hosted in conjunction with Taraba State Government.

Hasso who doubles as the Chairman, Adamawa State Volleyball Association said, “The Nigeria Volleyball Federation is set for the Division 2 League. This is the baby of the federation; we are starting the league in Jalingo, Taraba state.

“This is the first phase and arrangements are in place for the successful hosting of this league. Six teams will begin hostilities today and you will see top class volleyball from these teams.

“The atmosphere of the volleyball community here in Jalingo is high; the town is aware of the championship and we believe the court will be flooded with spectators who are expectant of the championship,” he added.

Hasso rated the facilities of the Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo adding that the board will ensure age grade championships are hosted to keep the facilities in use.

He said, “As you can see, Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo has one of the best sporting facilities in the country and the volleyball federation is ready to partner with the state government in ensuring more age grade and national championships are hosted here.”

Day 1 fixtures (22nd April, 2022)

Adamawa Spikers v Bayonet Spikers (8am)

Plateau Rocks v Benue Spikers (2pm)

Taraba Spikers v Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Spikers (4pm)