ROAD TOWN, Tortola: The British Virgin Islands (BVI) started off their ECVA U23 Male Championship campaign with victory, as they subdued Anguilla in three straight sets 25-23, 25-22, 25-13, in Match 2.
Outside hitter Javin Wattley and captain Kymal Panchoo navigated the home side to the win with thirteen (13) and twelve (12) points, respectively, in the Pool A match.
Outside hitter Je’Vaunti Sasso was the most prolific attacker for team Anguilla. He tallied 10 points, inclusive of two aces.
Despite BVI asserting themselves with their blocking early in the first set, Anguilla were determined to frustrate the home side with scrappy play. Pivotal attacks by Wattley and a crushing block on set point secured the first set for the host, 25 to 23.
The second set had a similar pattern to the first and with the home crowd cheering them on loudly, the BVI was able to secure the set at 25 to 22.
The BVI obliged their fans with a more convincing third set, wrapping up the match with the score of 25 to 13 in set three.
Coach Kwele Williams and captain Panchoo, of the BVI, both lauded the efforts of Wattley. They also expressed a commitment to improving their level of play even more for their next match.
Anguilla’s Coach Jason Liburd and captain Trevon Smith were disappointed with the loss but found solace in overcoming the nervousness of a first match and gaining experience from their first match.
Anguilla next plays St. Maarten on Thursday (tomorrow) while the BVI plays Grenada (October 12).
