Jenia Grebennikov has helped France stay unbeaten in the World League
Lausanne, Switzerland, June 10, 2017 – After beating Russia 3-1 on Friday and Italy by the same score on Saturday, Jenia Grebennikov was a happy man.
“It's nice to see the French team like that," France’s libero stated. After two splendid defensive displays against two huge teams, Grebennikov says his team is keen to qualify for the Final Six as soon as possible.
What did you think of the match against Italy?
It was a match with a lot at stake as we have almost qualified for the Final Six. We are still undefeated in this competition and it was very important to have won to keep things going in the competition. It's nice to see the French team like that, even though today I think it was the most difficult game of the World League. It was hard physically and the conditions were difficult to play our best volleyball.
Did the Italians surprise you in the service?
They had nothing to lose. They knew that if we did not have our reception, it would be difficult to develop our game, but we managed to get to the balls, although it was very difficult.
What was the key factor?
Stephen (Boyer) had an incredible game. The guy’s a monster! I think he made the difference. The rest of us just tried to play flat out and make as few errors as possible to set things up for him. He had one of his best games. Whatever he does, he does it superbly and when he makes a mistake, we do not blame him, because we know that he gives everything. He makes points even when the ball is not good and it’s beautiful to see.
It was very hot on court and in the stands; had you ever heard the Marseillaise like that during a match?
No, never. There was a great atmosphere. It was full and it was great to see that craziness around us. I hope it will be the same against the United States.
You are unbeaten after five games; is this an extra goal for you in this World League?
No, the goal is to qualify for the Final Six as soon as possible to rest some players and see everyone play. We do not want to play bad volleyball, especially when we are at home.