VTV Binh Dien Long An had its first victory in the second phase of the 2024 National Volleyball Championship on the evening of November 8. Coach Thai Quang Lai's team defeated the Information Corps with a score of 3-1.
With this result, the Western team has 3 more points and climbed to the top of the table with 14 points, after 5 wins and 1 loss. The Information Corps still has 13 points, falling to 2nd place, with 4 wins and 2 losses.
The recent victory of VTV Binh Dien Long An was largely due to the contribution of middle blocker Nguyen Thi Ngoc Hoa. At the age of 37, her physical strength is no longer as good as when she was at her peak, so coach Thai Quang Lai always puts Ngoc Hoa in at important moments. The former No. 1 hitter of Vietnam still shows her ability, especially her experience and bravery, leading her juniors to defeat a formidable opponent, the Information Corps team.
After a long time without playing at the highest level, Ngoc Hoa was not overwhelmed by the atmosphere on the field or the ball. She is an important link, helping VTV Binh Dien Long An's play through situations where the ball is coordinated with setter Kim Thoa smoothly. The presence of this veteran hitter on the field as well as in the center of the front row helps the defense at the net and quick finishing of the Western team become more effective.
The remaining arrangements and scoring were done by young players like Tra My, Nhu Anh, Khanh Vy or Lan Vy along with foreign player Joyce Agbolosso. It can be seen that coach Thai Quang Lai currently has a team with a combination of youth and experience.
As for Ngoc Hoa, the reason she was able to quickly get into the rhythm with the team is because the former captain of the Vietnamese women's volleyball team previously worked as a youth coach for VTV Binh Dien Long An and had time to prepare for this return.
"I have just participated in professional training with the coaches in the team, and also prepared myself. It took me about 2 months to return when the team assigned me the task. I have combined training and practice to prepare to the best of my ability.
My position does not require much strength, focusing on defending and attacking fast ball situations. I do that well, following the tactical plan set by the coaching staff," said middle blocker Nguyen Thi Ngoc Hoa.
The recent victory not only helped VTV Binh Dien Long An take the top spot in the rankings but also helped coach Thai Quang Lai and his team reduce psychological pressure because in the next rounds they will meet the defending champion LPB Ninh Binh.
With a quality squad with a mix of forces, comfortable mentality and leader on the field Nguyen Thi Ngoc Hoa, the girls of VTV Binh Dien Long An are in high spirits and ready to compete for the championship of this year's tournament.
