Guernsey taking good form into volleyball inter-insulars

Five matches will take place across the weekend at Beau Sejour, starting with a title defence bid by Guernsey’s young and high-flying men’s A team this evening.

The men have already been confirmed as Hampshire champions and so will enter the match with great momentum, though Jersey’s own venture onto the county stage this season has given them valuable competition experience.

Guernsey captain Robbie Le Messurier says the team are ‘really excited’ for the big match.

‘We’ve won the last two years 3-0 and we’ve got a strong team of talented players who love playing together,’ he said.

‘We have been undefeated for seasons in Hampshire, so we know that we play a good level of volleyball. It should be a really good time.

‘Jersey have been playing in the Hampshire League this season so we expect them to be more match-ready.’

• Hear from men’s coach Neil Elmy and women’s captain Jen Linfield on this week’s Guernsey Press Sport Podcast

The men’s B match will take place tomorrow, as will the two women’s contests and junior mixed.

B team captain Ashley Gordon also has his sights on victory.

‘Inters is one of the biggest games we have each year and due to the rivalry with Jersey, we don’t look to achieve anything but a win.

‘I expect Jersey will have stepped up this year with them introducing themselves to the Hampshire Grand Prix scene, so it should be interesting what level of game they turn up with.’

Both the Guernsey and Jersey women’s teams are currently unbeaten in the Hampshire League and so, ahead of a county clash next month, the inter-insular looks an intriguing contest.

Women’s A captain Jen Lindfield agreed that the inters are a highlight of the calendar and highlighted the friendly rivalry.

‘Although there is a lot of rivalry on court, we are friends off court and love the chance to have bragging rights after winning.

‘The ladies’ A team have been working hard in the run up to inters, with a massive success at Hampshire League, which has given the ladies a great boost in confidence and we look forward to dominating the court on Saturday and taking back the trophy.’

Women’s B captain Tori Toumazi feels even more determined following the team’s victory in last year’s equivalent match.

‘We’re not just playing for a win, but to defend our title with pride.

‘This match isn’t just about competition, though; it’s about camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the pride of representing our island.

‘We have a strong team and every member of the team is prepared to give their all on the court.’

Le Messurier also praised a ‘great bunch’ of mixed junior players, who will also be on title defence duties.