NAF Rockets hold off COAS Spikers in five-set CGC Volleyball Premier League thriller

NAF Rockets recovered from an opening-day defeat by beating COAS Spikers 3–2 in the standout match of the second day of the final phase of the CGC Volleyball Premier League in Abuja.

The Rockets won 25–23, 23–25, 31–29, 19–25, 15–11 in a contest that repeatedly swung between the two teams. After sharing the opening two sets, the sides battled beyond 25 points in the third before NAF Rockets edged it 31–29.

COAS Spikers responded by taking the fourth set 25–19, but the Rockets produced their strongest performance in the decider, winning 15–11 to secure their first victory of the final phase. The result provided a response to their opening-day loss to Nigeria Customs Service, while COAS Spikers were left to reflect on missed opportunities.

In the women’s category, former champions CNS Spikers began their campaign with a convincing 3–0 win over Kada Emeralds, taking the sets 25–12, 25–14 and 25–14. Kada Emeralds struggled to match their opponents’ consistency and attacking strength.

Fire Service also completed a straight-sets victory, defeating Anambra Queens 25–19, 25–16, 25–18. VIP Spikers, former National Division One winners, beat Life Camp VC 3–0 after winning the first two sets 25–18 and the third 26–24.

Defending champions Nigeria Customs Service underlined their title ambitions with a 3–0 victory over Olalomi Royal Angels. Customs won 25–14, 25–15 and 25–12.

Nigeria Correctional Service recorded a 3–0 men’s victory against Defence Spikers, winning 25–18, 33–31 and 25–20. COAS Spikers recovered from losing the opening set 30–28 to Ajase Ipo, winning the next three 25–19, 25–14 and 25–19.

Nigeria Customs Service defeated Nigeria Police Force 3–0, with the sets ending 25–17, 26–24 and 25–17. CNS Spikers overcame Sunshine Spikers by the same scoreline, winning 25–23, 25–15 and 26–24.

NSCDC beat Life Camp VC 3–1 after recovering from a second-set loss. The final scores were 25–21, 21–25, 25–22 and 25–20. Kano Pillars also won 3–1 against UCEM, with the sets finishing 25–22, 15–25, 25–20 and 25–22.

The results highlighted the strength of established teams in both categories, while NAF Rockets’ comeback victory provided the day’s most closely fought encounter. With the final phase continuing in Abuja, teams will be seeking consistency, crucial points and momentum in their respective title challenges.