Quarterfinals: Nekoma vs. Shiratorizawa – Second Set
Quarterfinals: Nekoma vs. Shiratorizawa – Second Set
The second set began with Shiratorizawa determined to bounce back after losing the first. Their resolve was evident in the intensity of their serves, spikes, and blocks. Nekoma, still riding the high of their first-set victory, stepped onto the court with confidence, but they were well aware of the storm brewing on the other side.
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Shiratorizawa Strikes Back
The set opened with Ushijima Wakatoshi at the service line. His jump serve rocketed over the net, grazing it slightly but maintaining its speed and spin. Nekoma's libero, Yaku, managed a clean receive, but the power of the serve sent him sliding a few feet back.
Kenma rushed into position, setting the ball for Lev. The middle blocker soared into the air, aiming for a quick spike. However, Tendo Satori, Shiratorizawa's unpredictable middle blocker, read the play and formed a perfect block.
"Point, Shiratorizawa!" the referee announced as the ball deflected off Tendo's hands and hit Nekoma's court.
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Kenma's Struggles
Shiratorizawa's strategy became clear: target Kenma. Their powerful spikes and sharp serves forced Nekoma's setter into awkward positions, making it harder for him to control the flow of the game.
At 10-8, with Shiratorizawa leading, Ushijima unleashed another devastating spike. This time, Kenma attempted to dig it himself. The ball connected with his arms, but the sheer force sent him stumbling backward. He winced in pain, clutching his wrist.
The referee called for a pause as Nekoma's coach, Yasufumi Nekomata, and the team gathered around Kenma.
"Are you okay?" Kuroo asked, concern evident in his voice.
Kenma shook his head slightly. "I'm fine, but I can't risk messing up the set flow. Sub me out for now."
Reluctantly, Coach Nekomata nodded and signaled for a substitution. Yamamoto Taketora stepped in as the temporary setter, while the team adjusted their rotation to cover for Kenma's absence.
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Shiratorizawa Gains Momentum
With Kenma off the court, Nekoma's rhythm faltered. Shiratorizawa capitalized on the disruption, with Ushijima leading their offensive onslaught. His spikes were relentless, cutting through Nekoma's blocks and finding open spots in their defense.
Lev and Kuroo worked tirelessly to counter, forming double blocks against Ushijima. However, Ushijima's ability to hit through or around the block kept Shiratorizawa ahead.
The scoreboard read 20-15, with Shiratorizawa in control.
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Wakasa Tries to Rally Nekoma
Realizing the situation, Wakasa Kiyoshi stepped up to reignite Nekoma's fighting spirit. His explosive spikes and smart shot placements earned Nekoma crucial points.
At 22-18, Wakasa performed a miraculous play. With Yamamoto's set slightly off-target, Wakasa adjusted mid-air and executed a powerful line shot that clipped the baseline.
"Wakasa is keeping Nekoma alive!" the commentator exclaimed.
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Set Point: Shiratorizawa Strikes
Despite Wakasa's efforts, Shiratorizawa reached set point at 24-20. Ushijima once again led the charge, but this time Nekoma's defense held firm. Kuroo and Lev formed a perfect double block, stopping Ushijima's spike and earning Nekoma a point.
The crowd roared as Nekoma fought to stay in the set, narrowing the gap to 24-22. However, on the next rally, Shiratorizawa's setter, Shirabu Kenjirou, performed a deceptive dump, catching Nekoma off-guard and sealing the set.
"Set won by Shiratorizawa, 25-22!"
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Post-Set Adjustments
As the teams returned to their benches, Kenma rejoined Nekoma, his wrist taped but functional. "I'm fine now," he assured Coach Nekomata, who gave him a nod of approval.
Kuroo gathered the team, his tone serious but encouraging. "We're not losing focus. We played well, but we need to tighten our defense against Ushijima. Kenma, welcome back—we need you to control the pace."
Kenma nodded. "I've got it. Let's make them regret underestimating us."
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Commentary
"That was a hard-fought set by both teams, but Shiratorizawa's raw power gave them the edge," the commentator noted.
"Now it's tied at one set apiece. The third set will decide who moves on to the semifinals," the co-commentator added.
The tension in the gymnasium was palpable as the teams prepared for the final set. Would Nekoma's defense and strategy prevail, or would Shiratorizawa's strength prove insurmountable?