Martigues Edges REC Volley in Five-Set Thriller to Boost Ligue B Playoff Hopes

REC Volley 2–3 Martigues (25–23, 22–25, 25–27, 25–21, 13–15) — In a pulsating Ligue B encounter on 10 May 2026, Martigues snatched a dramatic away victory over REC Volley, prevailing 3–2 in front of a lively crowd. The win moved Martigues into the top four of the second‑division standings, while REC Volley slipped to mid‑table after failing to convert two separate leads.

Match Overview

The contest was a classic example of momentum swings. REC Volley started strongly, taking the first set 25–23 behind aggressive serving and solid blocking. However, Martigues responded in the second, levelling the match with a 25–22 win thanks to improved reception and quick attacks. The third set proved decisive: Martigues edged a tight exchange 27–25 to go 2–1 up, but REC Volley fought back to force a fifth set with a 25–21 victory in the fourth. In the decider, Martigues held their nerve, closing out 15–13 after REC Volley saved two match points.

Key Moments

• First set (25–23): REC Volley captain Thibault Meyer landed three consecutive blocks to turn a 22–23 deficit into a 25–23 win.
• Third set (27–25): Martigues outside hitter Lucas Girard smashed a crucial cross‑court kill from the back row to give his team the set and a 2–1 lead.
• Fifth set (15–13): After REC Volley fought back from 10–12 to 13–13, Martigues setter Jules Fontaine orchestrated two quick combinations, ending with a tip over the block from middle blocker Antoine Roux.

Standout Performances

Martigues’ Lucas Girard finished with a match‑high 28 points, including five aces, and was a constant threat from the service line. For REC Volley, opposite Damien Perret contributed 24 points, but his error count rose in the crucial fifth set. Martigues libero Hugo Belmonte dug 17 balls and provided the defensive stability that allowed his attackers to take risks.

Tactical Story

REC Volley dominated the blocking battle (12 stuff blocks to Martigues’ eight) but struggled in reception, particularly in the second and third sets. Martigues employed a varied service strategy, mixing jump floats with powerful jump serves to disrupt REC Volley’s setter, forcing several overpasses. The visitors also used their middle blockers effectively in transition, scoring 14 points from fast sets in the decisive third and fifth sets.

Impact on the Ligue B Standings

The win lifted Martigues to fourth place with 38 points from 20 matches, strengthening their position in the playoff race. REC Volley remained in ninth place on 30 points, now eight points adrift of the top six. With only six matches left in the regular season, REC Volley will need to regroup quickly if they hope to challenge for a promotion spot next campaign.