Volleyball: Men’s First Team Persevere in Varsity Triumph

A win that highlights the importance of atmosphere in sport

Pictures provided by @uolvc on Instagram

DMU once again hosted UOL’s Men’s First team this year for the annual Varsity tradition.

At last year’s Volleyball comeback win by UOL, their supporter’s loud war drum and various chants were a noticeable highlight.

It would make sense that the hosts would want some form of payback in the rematch.

In the first round DMU used their home advantage to do just that. UOL had a hard time dealing with DeMontfort's serves and any momentum that UOL could mount was foiled by wreckless violations. The first round ended 25-16 to DMU, with their supporters' intensity notably increasing.

Pictures provided by @uolvc on Instagram

UOL didn’t let this faze them, as they returned with a new, refined and composed performance, aided by their excitable supporters. Now, it seemed that UOL and DMU’s supporters were having a mini match of their own. Every point scored, every successful defense, every violation was met with chants and claps and the returning, infamous War Drum was used to intensify the build-up of almost every serve. With this, UOL were able to bounce back and win the second round 25-21 in a close contest.

A lack of stamina also seemed to cost DMU the games. As, ultimately, their fatigue was visible in their play, keeping it competitive but ultimately leading them to lose the rematch 3-1 overall.