Anticipation is building for Viridex Sabaudia’s playoff debut, when they return to the Pala Vitaletti on Sunday at 6:00 PM to face ErmGroup Altotevere San Giustino in the first leg of their round of 16 match. This match marks the start of the decisive phase of the season, and the team from Pontine intends to approach it with full energy, fueled by the enthusiasm of the crowd.
“We’re very excited to start these playoffs. We’ve been training well and finished the season with an excellent 3-1 victory against Campobasso,” explains Enrico Pilotto, Viridex Sabaudia middle blocker. “We finished the regular season on a high note, and now the playoffs begin against San Giustino, a team that’s already well-oiled because they haven’t changed many players each year.” The middle blocker from Pontine emphasizes the solidity of their opponents, who have been playing together for a long time and are therefore capable of implementing a consolidated playing system. “There are many players who have played well together for years, so it will certainly be a difficult match. We’re fortunate to be playing the first match at home, and we need to capitalize on this opportunity.”
A key aspect will be the approach to the two-legged tie, with a formula that leaves no margin for error. “The playoffs are a championship unto themselves; you can’t make mistakes. Compared to some time ago, the format has changed; now they’re two games with a golden set. There’s less room for improvement, and we need to give it our all right away to secure the next round.” Coach Beltrame’s team enters this match after a 3-1 victory against Campobasso, which allowed them to close out the regular season on a high and secure sixth place in the Blue Group.
