The Orange Dragons Start with a victory in MEVZA league

ACH Volley Ljubljana

n the first tournament match of the MEVZA league, ACH Volley Ljubljana faced Austria's SK Zadruga AICH/DOB. The match was a reunion of long-time competitors, with ACH Volley Ljubljana dominating all three sets and securing their seventh consecutive win of the season.

Ljubljana – Tivoli Sports Hall, Attendance: 120, Referees: Igor Schimpl (SVK), Miroslav Juraček (SVK)


ACH Volley Ljubljana : SK Zadruga AICH/DOB 3 : 0 (25:17, 25:21, 25:22)


ACH Volley Ljubljana: Golzadeh 22, Kržič Jošt, Šket, Najdič, Esko 3, Marovt 11, Šen, Kržič Janž Janez 4, Kovačič (L), Štalekar 5, Pokeršnik 10, Videčnik, Kök, Kumer (L). Coach: Matjaž Hafner
SK Zadruga AICH/DOB: Halagahu 7, Brandsetter (L), Yamamoto 12, Adami 1, Camino 13, Dzenis 3, Krassing 4, Sablating 3, Micheu, Klajmon 3. Coach: Antonio Lucio Oro

The match began evenly, with Golzadeh’s two aces giving the Dragons an early 7:6 lead. Pokeršnik followed with two more aces, prompting the visitors’ coach to call a timeout. Back on the court, the Slovenian champions took control, expanding their lead through consistent service and capitalizing on opponents’ errors. Golzadeh’s powerful spike closed the first set (25:17), as he contributed nine points, including four aces.

Riding the momentum from their opening set win, Ljubljana continued with powerful serves and solid blocking in the second set. A strong reception allowed the debut of Finnish setter Mikko Esko, who displayed skillful and varied plays, leading to a set-clinching score of 25:21.

The third set was the most balanced, as Ljubljana eased up on their serves, allowing SK Zadruga AICH/DOB to keep pace until the end. The standout, Amir Golzadeh, sealed the victory with his seventh ace, securing the first MEVZA tournament win for Ljubljana (25:22).

Statement by ACH Volley Ljubljana’s Coach, Matjaž Hafner:
"I’m quite satisfied with the first two sets, as our serves were on point, which allowed for smoother blocking and defense. Although the opponent didn’t give up and kept pushing back, we managed to secure another win, which is the most important thing. However, there’s still room for improvement."