Kada Kings of Kaduna state on Saturday night emerged winners of first phase of National Volleyball League Division 1 after defeating arch rival Kwara United of Ilorin 3-1.
Both sides won all their matches to set up a thrilling epic final at the Gymnasium Hall of Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna. But it was Kada Kings that came out victorious, winning the keenly contested match 27-25; 25-19; 22-25 and 25-10.
The hosts who led the log on 15 points by virtue of their results, wanted to prove that their previous victories were deserved, even as the Harmony Boys on 13 points intended to win to prove their strength.
The first set was a cagey affair Kwara United ran out to early lead and took it up to 23-21, before the el-Rufai Boys summoned strength to level up 24-24, buoyed by the home support, Kada Kings conceded the first point before winning the next three points to win the match.
The second set was akin to the first set as they both ran a family affair up till midway into the set before Kada Kings improved their performance to win it.
The third set was a game of two halves, the home side controlled the first half, then the visitors, realising they needed to win the set to have any chance, rallied back to level at 14-14, then they ran to lead before winning 25-22.
The fourth set was somewhat decisive as the winner will either win the match or set up a tough final. Kada Kings showed early intent and never looked back, as Kwara United looked shell shocked the hosts ran to an emphatic victory 25-10 racking 21 points.
Kwara United were second with 15 points, Bauchi JVC placed third with 13 points, Spartans of Yola were fourth with 13 points, Katsina came fifth with nine points, Equity of Kebbi was sixth with five points, Sokoto Spikers were seventh with four points, while Oyo state placed eight with a solitary point.
The second phase of National Volleyball League Division 1 where the four winners of the division will be promoted to the premier league is scheduled for Bauchi in October.
