Opponents: Tooting Aquila
Date: Saturday 22nd September 2001
Result: 3-1 Win
Venue: Bacon's College, Rotherhithe
Headline: Docklands Start Brightly
Author: Andy Hopper

After winning National League Division 2 last season without losing a match, London Docklands Volleyball Club continued their unbeaten run in an assured return to the top flight. Docklands' first opponents back in Division 1 were Tooting Aquila, league champions three seasons ago. However, this Aquila side are a shadow of their former selves and a youthful Docklands team took full advantage.

Six weeks of pre-season training by Docklands was evident from the start as they took an early 8-3 lead, maintaining their advantage to 20-15. Captain Danny Primus, who was making his return to action after a long lay off through injury, was clearly relishing being back in the top division. A slight loss of concentration by LDVC gave Aquila some hope but Docklands managed to hold their nerve and serve out the set

However, Aquila managed to maintain the momentum they had gained at the end of the first set and quickly took an 8-2 lead at the start of the second set. Although Docklands made up some of the deficit, Aquila won the set25-23.

Docklands coach Legrand shuffled his pack at the start of the third set by introducing new Dutch signing Jesse Kaptein for his National League debut. He had an immediate impact on the game by giving setter Andy Vincett a reliable release outlet and Kaptein's shot selection was impeccable. Aided by impressive blocking from Martin Blake, Docklands cruised to the third set

The fourth set had a similar pattern to the second with LDVC playing catch-up for most of the set. At 20-16 down two service aces from Primus got Docklands back into the set and with the momentum behind them LDVC took the set 25-22 and the match three sets to one.

This victory went some way to avenging defeat at the hands of Aquila in the opening match two seasons ago. Docklands have made a confident start tothis season but still have areas to improve upon. LDVC's next home game is on Saturday 13th October at Bacon's College, Rotherhithe.