ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Air Force (PAF) produced a sensational performance to shock defending champions Wapda and storm into the final of the 55th National Volleyball Championship at the POF Wah Gymnasium on Friday.
Displaying remarkable teamwork, aggression and composure under pressure, PAF stunned the star-studded Wapda outfit in straight sets, winning 27-25, 25-21, 25-22 in one of the biggest upsets of the championship.
The opening set witnessed thrilling rallies and neck-and-neck competition as both teams fought fiercely for supremacy. However, PAF held their nerves at crucial moments to snatch the marathon first set 27-25, a breakthrough that completely shifted momentum in their favour.
Inspired by the confidence-boosting start, PAF dominated the next two sets with disciplined blocking, sharp attacking play and outstanding defence. Youngsters Fahad Raza, Afaq Khan and Rauf emerged as the architects of victory, repeatedly troubling Wapda with powerful spikes and intelligent placement.
After losing the opening set, Wapda struggled to regain rhythm as their experienced campaigners failed to counter PAF’s relentless pace and energy. Ace player Aimal Khan, regarded as one of the team’s main weapons, could not deliver his usual match-winning performance against the determined Air Force side.
“We will now try to win the final as well. Wapda had defeated us last year, but this time we fought back and took revenge for that loss. Our eyes are now on the title. It is never easy to beat such a strong side in straight sets,” Fahad Raza said after the memorable victory.
