Jugu spike out Matala in NCD Volleyball Association Semi-Final clash

Jugu advanced to the Grand Final after edging out Matala with a 3-2 set in the National Capital District Volleyball Association (NCDVA) Men’s Semi-Final clash on Saturday, 29 August 2026, at Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre.

With the grand final spot up for grabs, the two sides came prepared, competing until the five-set series ended, where Jugu managed to overcome the spirited Matala outfit in the penultimate showdown.

Matala started the opening set with a 25-19 victory. However, Jugu responded in the following sets, winning 25-18 and 25-19, respectively. Matala leveled with Jugu in the 4th set with a 25-21 margin, and Jugu returned the favor in the final set to secure a hard-fought 3-2 set with a final score of 17-15. 

Jugu coach Vela Ralewa, a former PNG setter and captain, explained that they knew the confident Matala side would come strong, with the team working on key areas during the week to contain the Gerehu men.

“We had a good preparation. Everyone bonded and gelled well. The result spoke for itself. It was not so much the skills and how we played, but it was the team’s spirit and bonding that got us through the line,” Ralewa said. 

“We came here with a plan. We did not quite execute our game plan in the first set, but we got the gear up in the second and third sets. We lost momentum in the 4th set. However, we finished the last set with a win.  

“It was anyone’s game, but I’m glad we stuck to our game plan and got the win. We did some nice touches towards the end of the last set, and I think that was what got us to the finish line.”

Coach Ralewa said they needed to polish up their backcourt cover, explaining that the team must take their chances and convert the third ball into points if they want to beat the Kereibua Scorpions and lift the trophy. 

The Jugu mentor admitted that going up against the formidable Scorpions in the grand final will be daunting, but noted that his men are confident at matching their opponent on the biggest stage of the season. 

Jugu started the season slowly, picked up their rhythm during the season, and went firing on all cylinders in the playoffs to book their place in the decider. They will meet Scorpions in the NCDVA Grand Final on Saturday, August 5th, at Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre.