Al
Rayyan juggernaut kept rolling by winning their fifth silverware of the
season when they triumphed in the Qatar Cup final yesterday.
At the
Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA) Hall, Rayyan defeated Police 3-1
(25-22, 25-21, 23-25, 28-26) in thrilling encounter to register their
third win over Police this season.
Rayyan started the season with the
Super Cup win over Police in November 2017. Then they followed it up
with the Arab Clubs Championship and dethroned Police to bag the Qatar
Volleyball League for the ninth time. They also won the Qatar National
Tournament organised at Katara.
Al Rayyan coach Carlos Schwanke gave credit of the success to his boys.
“It
is another big win for us. We have won five titles in the season and
the secret of our success has been our tough preparations and the entire
credit goes to the boys,” the Brazilian said.
After winning the first two sets, Al Rayyan lost the third narrowly.
In
the fourth set, Rayyan shot ahead 13-6 to take the command. However,
Police fought back going from 19-24 down to saving five match points.
Police had two set points as well but they could not convert them. Al
Rayyan then claimed the required two points and sealed the win.
Al Rayyan are still in contention for at least two more titles with the Emir Cup and Asian Championship coming up.
“My
boys are in good nick and they are ready for forthcoming challenges. We
are hopeful of winning the prestigious Emir Cup and Asian
Championship,” Schwanke said.
It was another disappointing day for Police coach Damian Arrendondo.
“Yes,
we are disappointed as unfortunately we have lost another final to
Rayyan. But I have confidence in my players as we are the only team
coming close to Rayyan,” Arrendondo said.
Rayyan received QR300,000 in prize-money, while Police pocketed QR200,000 as runners-up.
