Skopje, FYR of Macedonia, July 10, 2014.  FYR of Macedonia took the three points from the first leg of its semifinal clash of the 2014 CEV Volleyball European League - Men.  At home, in Skopje, the Macedonians beat Montenegro by 3:1 (25-23, 25-22, 21-25, 25-20) and all they need from the away match on Wednesday is two sets in order to qualify for the final.

The home guys were in control of the scoreboard through the entire first set, although the Montenegrins gave them a scare in the end by tying it at 19-19 and 21-21.  Still, Macedonia persevered to win the set by a minimal 25-23, with both teams having shown a good performance in blocking.  Macedonia continued its great blocking efforts in the second set, while Montenegro improved its offense, but also committed too many mistakes.  The visiting team had the advantage through most of the first half of the set, but after five changes in the lead, it was the home team that took control from 15-15 on to double its lead with a 25-22.  The first time in the third set that the gap was wider than one point was at 19-17 Montenegro’s way.  The visiting squad’s blockers were once again producing good results and this helped towards the eventual 25-21 at the end of the set.  Set four was competitive only through 7-7, after which Macedonia broke away with five consecutive points and never looked back.  Zharko Ristoski’s selection managed to extend its advantage to 17-9, which was more than enough for a comfortable finish at 25-20 and 3:1.

With 18 points each, Macedonia’s Jovica Simovski and Montenegro’s Vojin Cacic topped the scorers’ chart of the match.

Zharko Ristoski, head coach of Macedonia:  "First semifinal in the European League - who would not be happy with a win.  We had small fluctuations in the game, I have to admit, but I am very pleased with what my guys showed today.  In some moments we had poor performance in attack, but it was due to maybe the not so perfect reception.  But such fluctuations are normal in a semifinal.  We made the first step towards the final.   Montenegro has indicated that it is not an easy prey, which is normal, as there are no easy opponents in the semifinals.  We knew what we wanted in this game – to win, and we did it.  This is a great result, historical for Macedonia, and no matter what happens in Budva, for me my team is already in the final."

Slobodan Boskan, head coach of Montenegro:  "Macedonia deserved to win tonight. It played stronger, although in very easy way got ahead by 2:0 in sets.  I think that Macedonia was prepared for a strong match and to fight hard for every point, and I think that made the difference.  For me, this is only the first half, which Macedonia won.  In the second match we play at home, and I think we have a chance to correct the impression and to win.  There is a golden set opportunity that we are hoping for."

The return match in Montenegro is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, at 20:00 local time in Budva.