Rayyan claim season’s fifth volleyball title

AlRayyan juggernaut kept rolling by winning their fifth silverware of theseason when they triumphed in the Qatar Cup final yesterday.At theQatar Volleyball Association (QVA) Hall, Rayyan defeated Police 3-1(25-22, 25-21, 23-25, 28-26) in thrilling encounter to register theirthird win over Police this season.Rayyan started the season with theSuper Cup win over Police in November 2017. Then they followed it upwith the Arab Clubs Championship and dethroned Police to bag the QatarVolleyball League for the ninth time. They also won the Qatar NationalTournament organised at Katara.Al Rayyan coach Carlos Schwanke gave credit of the success to his boys.“Itis another big win for us. We have won five titles in the season andthe secret of our success has been our tough preparations and the entirecredit goes to the boys,” the Brazilian said.After winning the first two sets, Al Rayyan lost the third narrowly.Inthe 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. AlRayyan 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.“Myboys are in good nick and they are ready for forthcoming challenges. Weare hopeful of winning the prestigious Emir Cup and AsianChampionship,” Schwanke said.It was another disappointing day for Police coach Damian Arrendondo.“Yes,we are disappointed as unfortunately we have lost another final toRayyan. But I have confidence in my players as we are the only teamcoming close to Rayyan,” Arrendondo said.Rayyan received QR300,000 in prize-money, while Police pocketed QR200,000 as runners-up.