WL2017/Grbic Changes the fate of Serbia in Tehran

Tehran, Iran, June 10, 2017 – Grbic revived the memories last year which was happily ended this year with strategies implemented.

Saeid Marouf, Captain of Iran: “It was the worst loss of Iran at home. We counted on our hosting advantage and we needed the home points. Serbia was a team that did not let us to play our game. They are very systematized and disciplined. When you play against such team, and you can’t serve well, there will be no chance left for block and attack. It was the worst day for our serves. They dominated the match overall. This is sport, either loss or victory. Thanks to all the supporters and fans outside and inside the stadium. They cheered us to the end. I hope, we play better in the future.”

Marko Podrascanin, Captain of Serbia: “I am very happy for this victory. It was our best game in the World League for this summer. We played a good match especially in the first two sets. And after the third set, we had a good reaction in the fourth set getting together for victory. We need to forget this gain because tomorrow we have a important match against Belgium. We lost them in the first week at home. So, we need to take some kind of revenge here. Thanks to the crowd in Iran. Iran is one of the best volleyball country in the world and the crowd love volleyball here. They are really a great team. They have great players, great staff. I wish all the best for them in the world league and Asian championship.”

Igor Kolakovic, Head coach of Iran: “First of all, I congratulate to my colleague Nikola. They deserve this victory because they played better than us. The first two sets were good for both sides. They have very good service and were great in reception. Serbia was the champion of world league last year. Today, they showed us their power. For me, this match was very specific and emotional because Nikola and I were teammates, worled together, lived together. And also I worked with the same players before in the Serbian national team. This was the first time we were at the opposite sides. When they game started, I felt better.”

Nikola Grbic, Head coach of Serbia: “Obviously, I am very satisfied with how we played. Last year, we were in the similar condition. We were up 2-0 and then we lost 3-2. So when we start to lose the third set, I was remembering the memories from the last year. Fortunately, reaction of the guys was really good and we started the fourth set very well and gained points which let us win the set very easily. As my captain said, we have to forget this match as soon as possible and think about tomorrow’s match against Belgium. I believe that we are stronger than Belgium though we lost our home match last week. We only need to add pride here. If my players do in the same way like today, I am ready to play with them even right now.”