Sitting Bucks qualify for Golden league after silver medal

They opened their campaign with a dramatic five-set contest against Italy’s Gas Sales Bluenergy SV, battling through a tense encounter to record a crucial 3-2 (25–19, 26–24, 15–25, 17–25, 15–3) victory.

Sitting Bucks then faced host side Neptunes de Nantes in front of a passionate home crowd.

Despite a determined effort and strong defensive work, the English side were unable to stop the French team’s momentum, falling in straight sets 25–12, 25–11, 25–17.

But Bucks responded emphatically in their final fixture, producing a composed performance against ASUL Lyon Volley.

While the French side battled hard in all three sets, the Buckinghamshire team maintained control to secure a straight-sets win, 25–21, 25–22, 25–23.

As well as claiming the silver medal in France, Kevin Tann was selected in the team of the tournament, with his serve reception recognised alongside three Neptunes de Nantes players and one from each of the other teams.

Also part of the officiating team was Volleyball England referee Alexandru Calin, who officiated the final game of the day to see Neptunes de Nantes claim the gold medal and promotion to the Gold EuroLeague. 

This means that Sitting Bucks will join the French side in the next competition where they will face teams from Bosnia, Ukraine and France. A huge acheivement for the team who are now looking to represent England on the biggest European stage.

Full results, information and links to live streams of the matches can be viewed here.

Photos: ParaVolleyEurope