TENDRING Volleyball Club's women bowed out of the National Cup after losing 3-0 in their quarter-final against Polonia SideOut London, on Sunday.

The Frinton-based side got off to a strong start and were leading 8-6 at the first technical time-out.

However, despite a battling display by the team, including huge kills by Mechell Daniel, strong passes by Emily Bell and incredible defensive play by libero Lena Bitadou, the final score in the first set was 25-15 to Polonia.

Tendring got off to a tough start in the second and found themselves 7-0 down.

A substitution was then made and the team found their rhythm again.

They made a comeback thanks to some great play by the whole team, with especially good connections between setter Lois Chitticks and middles Skye Gullatt and Amelia Smith.

The team gained a 24-23 lead but, despite more strong play and very long rallies, the final score was 27-25 to Polonia.

Tendring headed into the third set with a positive mindset and they went point for point with Polonia, gaining the lead at 12-9.

There were several incredible long rallies which showed the team’s determination to keep the ball in play and their strong mentality as they kept fighting for every point.

The connection between the setter, Chitticks, and the two outsides, Daniel and Sarah Edwards, was consistent, which allowed many points to be won. Defensive specialist Erica Caasi Morawski was introduced to help stabilise the defensive unit and she had some very good pickups.

The whole team fought to the very end and nobody ever gave up, but the final score was 25-22 to Polonia.

Tendring can be proud of their performance against experienced opposition.

They are looking forward to facing Polonia again on February 10 at the University of Essex (5.45pm), this time in the Super 8s.