The Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta was alive with excitement as Team Plateau clashed with Team Ondo in a gripping semifinal volleyball match that had fans glued to their seats. After a nail-biting five-set battle, Plateau emerged victorious, setting the stage for a final showdown with host team Ogun.
Team Ondo started strong, claiming the first set 25-22, but Plateau’s unyielding spirit sparked a comeback, taking the next two sets 25-19 and 25-22. Ondo fought back in the fourth set, also winning 25-22, pushing the match into a tense fifth set. In an intense finish, Plateau edged out Ondo 16-14, securing their spot in the final against Ogun, who had earlier defeated Team Bayelsa.
Professor Ezra Gunen, Director of Sports at Plateau State Sports Council, praised the team’s remarkable performance. “In 30 years, I have never witnessed such passion and resilience from Plateau’s volleyball team. This is the highest level they’ve reached, and we are determined to bring gold back to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, whose vision drives our ‘Time is Now’ sports reform,” he said.
Despite early concerns when Ondo led, Prof. Gunen never doubted Plateau’s comeback spirit.
Chairman of Plateau State Volleyball Association, Mr. Kevin Auta, expressed heartfelt thanks to God and Governor Mutfwang for their support. “Our players showed tremendous grit even when the odds were against us. We also commend Team Ondo for a worthy fight,” he remarked.
Vice Chairman Mr. Joro Anthony highlighted the team’s determination despite fatigue from their previous match. “Their resolve proves Plateau’s enduring legacy in volleyball,” he noted.
Board member Mrs. Bolcit Amacree added, “Our commitment to winning gold has never been stronger since Governor Mutfwang’s leadership. Today’s victory brings us closer to that goal.”
Team captain Ogwuche Samuel credited divine strength and emphasized the team’s resolve: “It wasn’t easy, but fatigue is no excuse. We’re one step away from gold.”
The much-anticipated final between Team Plateau and Team Ogun is scheduled for tomorrow, with the third-place playoff between Team Bayelsa and Team Ondo kicking off at 11:00 AM.
Plateau’s success extended beyond volleyball. Gang James Boyi clinched gold in the 1500m race, while gymnast Kande Adamu earned gold in Double Mini Trampoline and silver in Power Tumbling. Eremuje Afini added a silver medal in Double Mini Trampoline to the state’s growing tally.