JKU USI Linz Volleyball vs DSG Union Gutau

We knew that playing against DSG Union Gutau in Gutau would be difficult, as we are not used to the low ceiling and narrow space around the playing field. In the beginning of the first set, it could be seen that we were scared of hitting the ceiling in reception. We struggled to apply pressure in sideout situations and went behind quickly (2:8). After an early timeout we started playing better and saw, that they also had trouble with reception (15:11). A single service streak then brought Gutau in front again (15:17). Now both teams had set aside their nervousness and were efficient in their sideout. Gutau took the first set with 15:22.

The second set did not start much better (1:5), but at least we were only 4 points down this time. Similar to the first set we managed to equalize shortly after (10:10) But in general the set was characterised by errors on our part. We struggled to score in sideout situations and Gutau continued to improve their reception and pressure us with a versatile offense. After they gained a 3-point lead (17:20) they finished the set with a strong service series (17:25).

In the third set, we finally managed to start decent (6:5). Unfortunately, this small lead did not last long. After some back and forth (6:9, 10:9), the score was equal again at 11:11. Gutau continued to take small leads, but was never able to get out of reach, and at 21:21 it was anybody's game. Unfortunately for us, we were not able to take this set either, and DSG Union Gutau could celebrate their 4th 3:0 win of the season with 22:25 in the last set. (Match details)

JKU USI Linz Volleyball vs Sportunion Leonding

After a break for us, in which Sportunion Leonding won 2 sets against Gutau in a rather surprising 3:2 thriller for Gutau, it was our take to play against Leonding. We expected a much easier game than the first one, but made sure not to underestimate Leonding, as Gutau had nearly lost against them.

After a rather even start (7:6) we were able to apply lots of pressure with our serves. We could neutralize many of their attacks and, in contrast to the first game, nearly no errors. The first set ended 25:10.

In the second set, Leonding played better again. They were able to defend many attacks, which was really impressive, given the small hall and low ceiling. After a equal start (10:10) we were finally able to generate a small lead (14:11). Another good series from 16:14 to 21:14 more or less secured us the set. The final score of set 2 was 25:19.

We started the third set with four points back to back. Although Leonding came pretty close (5:4, 10:9), they were not able to catch up to us again. Instead, we increased our lead to 18:14. From there on both teams mostly exchanged sideout points and a few break points for us, such that we were able to take this last set 25:18. (Match details)

With these results, we reside in second place for now. We will attack with full power again in 2025! Our first game is the home game against Oberbank Steelvolleys Linz-Steg 2 on January 11th at 13:00! We hope to see many supporters in the Kepler Hall again!