Can Calicut Heroes Secure Their First Win of the Season Against Kolkata Thunderbolts?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Calicut Heroes secured their first win of the season.
- Mohan Ukkrapandian was awarded Player of the Match.
- Strong defensive plays by Shameemudheen and others contributed to the victory.
- Kolkata Thunderbolts struggled with service errors.
- Next matches in the PVL promise more excitement.
Hyderabad, Oct 17 (NationPress) The reigning champions Calicut Heroes triumphed over the Kolkata Thunderbolts with scores of 15-10, 15-11, and 15-12 during Season 4 of the Prime Volleyball League (PVL) at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad on Friday, marking their initial victory of the season. Mohan Ukkrapandian was awarded the Player of the Match.
Shameemudheen maintained his excellent form for Calicut, executing remarkable blocks against Ashwal Rai and attacking from the middle zone. The service pressure applied by Ashok Bishnoi granted Calicut an early lead. However, Kolkata's overseas player Matin Takavar countered with powerful spikes, though service errors hindered their momentum.
Santhosh joined the offensive actions for Calicut, enabling captain and setter Mohan Ukkrapandian to effectively distribute his attacks. The combination of Vikas Maan and Shameem formed a robust blocking line, complicating Kolkata's attacking efforts.
Calicut began committing service errors, which opened the door for Kolkata to stage a comeback. Nonetheless, Pankaj Sharma's cross-body spike went out, allowing Calicut to secure a 2-0 lead. Shameem continued to build momentum on defense, blocking ferocious attempts from Rahul K.
Despite strong passing from backup setter Jithin, the Thunderbolts struggled to capitalize on their attacking chances due to Calicut's formidable defense. Santhosh and Tharusha Chamath consistently scored points as Calicut sealed a 3-0 victory to earn all three points.
In another matchup, after narrowly defeating Calicut Heroes in a thrilling five-set battle, the Bengaluru Torpedoes aim to maintain their winning streak against the hosts, Hyderabad Black Hawks, in their next PVL clash on Saturday.
The Torpedoes displayed immense resilience in their last match, clinching a 20-18, 20-18, 7-15, 11-15, 15-12 victory over Calicut. Key performances came from Sethu and Joel Benjamin in the attack, with Jalen Penrose's power and consistency shining in the decisive fifth set.
Now, they face the Hyderabad Black Hawks, who are riding high after a commanding 3-1 win over the Goa Guardians on Wednesday. The home team is in excellent form, led by Brazilian attacker Yudi Yamamoto and Sahil Kumar, who has made a significant impact at the net through his all-around play.