The final stop on the journey takes us to Reggio Calabria. Tomorrow (Sunday, May 17, at 7:00 PM), Belluno Volley will take to the taraflex at PalaCalafiore to face Domotek in the decisive Game 3 of the Serie A3 Credem Banca playoff final. At stake is a ticket to the “upstairs”—to Serie A2.
MOTIVATION – Coach Vincenzo Mastrangelo, who has experienced several such high-profile matches in his career, knows it well: the emotional component is at least as important as a proper understanding of the fundamentals or a correct reading of the game plan. “In matches like this, motivation comes naturally. In fact, it needs to be kept in check. Because the desire to do well is at its peak.” These words perfectly describe the atmosphere experienced at the white-and-blues’ camp in recent days: “During the week, we tried to train properly, without overdoing the amount of work.” Because, at this point in the year, it’s not just physical preparation that counts. It’s also important to arrive clear-headed and mentally present. The Rhinos demonstrated this ability in the second installment of the series, when they overcame a false start and turned the tables in a sold-out VHV Arena.
FROM SCRATCH – Now, however, they’re starting from scratch. Even though the two contenders now know each other perfectly: “This is the fourth time we’ve faced Reggio Calabria in just over two months,” adds the coach. “As a result, the match could be decided on the details and individual moments of the various sets.” And that’s precisely where Mastrangelo has focused his weekly work: on the details. On those nuances that, in a tight final, can shift momentum and the outcome: “From a technical and tactical standpoint, we’ve tried to identify some small innovations that could help create problems for our opponents. And they’ve done the same.”
