Yesterday’s draw for the quarter-finals of the 2024-25 National Cup and National Shield served up some exciting matchups, and one of the most anticipated ties is IBB Polonia London taking on Essex Rebels. The game is set for 15th February 2025.
The National Cup’s knockout format never fails to deliver drama, and this quarter-final tie between IBB Polonia London and Essex Rebels is no exception. This marks the third consecutive year these two sides have faced off in the competition. Essex Rebels have had the upper hand in the previous two encounters, progressing further on each occasion, but Polonia had their revenge last season, defeating their rivals in the Super League semi-finals.
The two teams already met earlier this season at the Opening Weekend in Kettering, where Alex Porter’s team came out on top. However, the National Cup brings a different level of intensity, with its high-stakes, single-game knockout format.
Polonia’s Sport Director, Chris Hykiel, is embracing the challenge:
“I’m excited to play Essex again. We didn’t start the season the way we wanted, but we’ve made some changes and found form. Of course, they’re favourites on paper, but anything can happen in a game like this. Their coach will have a strategy, but so will we. We’re ready to try anything to win—even if it means putting me in as a serving substitute!”
With a place in the semi-finals and one of English volleyball’s most prestigious trophies on the line, this promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Further details about the match on 15th February 2025 will be announced soon.