Dar Kulaib advance to finals

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Defending champions Dar Kulaib barged last night into the finals of the 2023/2024 Isa bin Rashid Bahrain Volleyball League.

Dar Kulaib secured their berth after defeating Muharraq 3-1 (25-20, 25-14, 20-25, 25-23) in an exciting semi-final clash, played at Isa bin Rashid Arena at Isa Sports City in Riffa.

Dar Kulaib headed into the contest with a twice-to-beat advantage, with Muharraq hoping to send the match-up to a decisive rubber match that would have been played on Friday.

But Dar Kulaib dashed their hopes with a strong performance.

They now move on to the championship round, which will be played in best-of-three format.

There, they will take on either Al Ahli or Al Najma, who face off in the other semi-final series.

Ahli and Najma are playing in a best-of-three, with the victors securing the place across the net from Dar Kulaib.

Game two of their battles is scheduled for Friday at 6.30pm, to be followed by game three, if needed, on March 14, at 9pm.

The finals will also be played in a best-of-three format. Game one is scheduled for March 17, after which game two will be held on March 20.

March 23 will be the third and clinching game, if needed. Also set to be played will be a match for third place on March 18.

In last night’s contest, Dar Kulaib got off to an impressive start and a Mahmoud Abdulwahed spike closed out the first set in his team’s favour.

The reigning title holders rode their fine form into a dominant second frame, where they built a big lead of double digits, and a double block by Abdulla Mohammed and Hassan Alaiwi claim a 2-0 advantage.

Muharraq fought back in the third set and were comfortably ahead, but Dar Kulaib clawed their way back.

It was Muharraq’s turn to strike, however, as they were able to extend the match.

In the fourth, Dar Kulaib had the early advantage but Muharraq stayed within striking distance.

Following a successful challenge that gave Dar Kulaib a 23-22 lead, Muharraq’s Majeed Mohammed levelled the proceedings one last time.

Dar Kulaib superstar Mohammed Yaqoob then hit a powerful spike to put them in match point, and then Brazilian professional Caio Oliveira delivered an unstoppable smash to seal the contest.