Monday, 15 Jul 2024

Another Thrilling Five-Set Victory for MCNT – WUG

The U.S. Men’s Collegiate National Team – World University Games (MCNT – WUG) continues to showcase their exceptional skills in five-set matches, securing another hard-fought 3-2 win against China (19-25, 25-22, 25-22, 23-25, 15-13) at Palazetto dello Sport in Ariano Irpino, Italy on July 6, 2019.

MCNT – WUG head coach Ryan Perrotte praised his team’s tenacity, saying, “Unbelievable match, number two for us against a really tough China team. I’m really proud of the way our guys played again. The grit that they showed, the way they can grind out matches is phenomenal. The guys who came in off the bench, they did a tremendous job. I thought the serving really picked up across the board for everybody, but in the end, crucial serving and passing made the difference.”

After dropping the first set, the U.S. bounced back in the following two sets, winning both 25-22 to take the lead in the match. China staged a late comeback in the fourth set, but the American attack came alive in the fifth set. The USA Team displayed immense power as they converted 10 out of their 15 swings, eventually securing a thrilling 15-13 victory and their second win at the 2019 Summer Universiade.

“It took every single guy, one through 12, to get it done tonight,” said MCNT – WUG setter Garrett Zolg, who made a significant impact off the bench. “I’m really proud of the guys, we really persevered in another five-setter. Jaylen Jasper came up huge in the fifth set, Brett [Wildman] and Ethan [Siegfried] passed great down the stretch, so we were able to run our middles.”

Tham Khảo Thêm:  Balboa Bay 15s: A Winning Streak Continues

The win was a collective effort, with 10 different players on the court and nine players starting at least one set for the U.S. Middle blocker Blake Leeson led the team with 14 points, with 10 points from successful attacks and four from blocks. Brett Wildman and Brandon Rattray were just one point behind Leeson, both contributing 12 kills. Wildman also showcased his versatility with a service ace, while Rattray made an impact with a crucial block.

In terms of passing, Wildman stood out, recording 36 service receptions with an impressive 50 positive results. Libero Michael Simmons tallied 26 receptions, with 62% being positive. Siegfried and outside hitter Parker Dixon also reached double-digits in this category.

With this victory, MCNT – WUG currently sits in second place in Group B standings with four points, two points behind the undefeated team Russia. In the World University Games standings, a three- or four-set win is worth three points, while a five-set win grants two points. China and South Korea are tied for third place with one point each, while Portugal is yet to secure their first point.

Zolg expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “I’m just proud of the guys for being aggressive and going after it and getting it done tonight. It’s a great feeling to be up 2-0 going into the game against Russia.”

The eagerly anticipated match against the group-leading Russians will take place on July 8 at PalaSele Eboli in Eboli, Italy, with the first serve scheduled for 5:30 p.m. local time/11:30 a.m. Eastern.

Tham Khảo Thêm:  2023 NORCECA Men's Continental Championship

FAQs

  1. How did MCNT – WUG secure their win against China?

    • MCNT – WUG showcased strong determination and resilience, playing exceptionally well in a thrilling five-set match. They displayed impressive serving, passing, and attacking skills, with key contributions from players like Jaylen Jasper, Brett Wildman, and Ethan Siegfried.
  2. Who were the standout performers for MCNT – WUG?

    • Middle blocker Blake Leeson led the team with 14 points, while Brett Wildman and Brandon Rattray were just one point behind with their exceptional attacking skills. Garrett Zolg, as a setter, made a significant impact off the bench, and the team’s passers, led by Wildman and Michael Simmons, excelled throughout the match.
  3. What is the current standing of MCNT – WUG in Group B?

    • With four points, MCNT – WUG is in second place in Group B, trailing only behind the unbeaten team Russia. The team is in a strong position going into their next match.

Summary

The U.S. Men’s Collegiate National Team – World University Games (MCNT – WUG) showcased their resilience and outstanding skills in a thrilling five-set victory against China. Despite losing the first set, the MCNT – WUG team bounced back strongly, securing wins in the next two sets. With a remarkable display of power and precision, they clinched the final set, securing a well-earned victory. The win was a result of a total team effort, with each player contributing to the team’s success. The MCNT – WUG team’s exceptional serving, passing, and attacking skills were on full display throughout the match. With this victory, MCNT – WUG stands second in Group B standings, setting the stage for an exciting match against Russia.

Tham Khảo Thêm:  New Team, Same Goal for U.S. Men at VNL