Team Baha mas overcame a rough start to top Martinique in five sets (3-2) in the opening round of the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) World Championship Qualifying Tournament

The Bahamas men's national volleyball team fought hard to pull off a tight game over Martinique on Saturday in the opening round of the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) World Championship Qualifying tournament in Martinique.

Jamaal Ferguson led the way for Team Bahamas as they survived three match points to knock off Martinique in five sets 3-2 (25-23, 21-25, 25-27, 25-22, 18-16). The game, which was played at the Palais Des Sports Riviere Salee, lasted two hours and 40 minutes.

Ferguson and team captain Princ'tanique Wilson finished the contest with 23 points apiece, while middle-blocker Byron Ferguson added 17.

"We came with the expectation of having a tough battle with Martinique and we got more than we wanted," said national team head coach Covan Mortimer.

Although it wasn't the best game for team Bahamas, who got off to a slower start than usual, they still managed to hold a 58-51 edge on spikes and a 15-14 advantage on blocks. However, they were out-served 2-4 on aces.

"This game was our first match in three weeks due to recent circumstances," said Wilson. "I must credit Jamaal for stepping out of his regular position to and coming up big for us."

Ferguson normally plays the libero position but was shifted to opposite hitter due to a number of teammates being out because of injury.

Both teams committed multiple errors in the game, showing signs of lack of preparation and conditioning. Team Bahamas was credited with 44 errors in the game, while Martinique was charged with 39.

"The final result could have gone either way, but its been more than two years we last played an international match and we have room to improve while Bahamas showed why they were recent Caribbean champions," said Eddy Erialc, head coach of Martinique's squad.

Yoann Breleur led the way for Martinique with 15. Team Captain David Le Farve added 14 and both Gregory Alpha and Rodriguez Larcher finished with 13 points each.

"The match was not that difficult as both teams were not at their bests, but in the end we made too many mistakes," said Le Farve.

Team Bahamas played their second game of the tournament against Aruba, however, results of the game were not available up to press time.

Randy Smith, Guardian Sports Reporter

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