Doubleheader Game Preview: Essex Rebels vs Durham Palatinates

The Essex Sports Arena is set for a landmark day as the Essex Rebels prepare to host a massive Super League Volleyball doubleheader against the Durham Palatinates—and with a national attendance record in sight, it promises to be an unforgettable day!

MAAREE Women’s Super League – 2:00pm

TThe afternoon kicks off with a high-stakes showdown as the unbeaten Essex Rebels, currently top of the table, take on a Durham side riding the momentum of a gritty 3–2 opening-day victory. Leading the Palatinates’ attack is Chloe Thomas, their dominant opposite hitter. A former UNLV standout, Thomas was instrumental in Durham’s comeback win in Game 1 and will be the key offensive threat the Rebels must look to contain.

For Essex, the spotlight shines on the dynamic duo of Elayna Duprey (Outside) and Haley Gilfillan (Middle). Gilfillan, facing her former club, has begun the season in electric form—bringing intensity, presence, and leadership to the middle of the court. Duprey’s all-court threat and heavy arm make her one of the most dangerous attackers in the league. The matchup between Duprey and Thomas could very well determine the momentum of the entire match.

Head Coach Alex Chinery expressed his excitement ahead of this major home fixture:

“I’m really excited for this group to test itself against a team with the quality that this Durham team possesses. On what is going to be a landmark occasion for Rebels Volleyball, we hope to give everyone in attendance a spectacle that matches the crowd!”

DYNAMIK Men’s Super League – 4:00pm

Following the women’s showdown, the men take the floor for another heavyweight battle. Durham’s leader, Matthew Edwards, is a name that needs no introduction. Fresh off four years at UCLA — where he won an NCAA Championship — Edwards brings world-class experience and firepower to the Palatinates’ offense. His presence on the outside makes him one of the most accomplished players in the league.

The Rebels will counter with one of the league’s breakout stars: Raphaël Viens. Dominant at the net and already establishing himself as one of the top blockers in the league, Viens’ ability to neutralize Edwards and control the middle will be crucial in dictating the tempo of the match.

Head Coach Euan Fraser is confident and enthusiastic heading into the showdown:

“Tomorrow promises to be a great event and the guys are all really excited to put on a show. Durham are a strong team who we always enjoy competing against and so hopefully with the support of a record crowd we can bring home an important win!”

This isn’t just another matchday—the Rebels are aiming to break the UK volleyball attendance record, currently held by Volleyball England and set at the 2025 Final 4 in London. With two top-tier Super League fixtures, elite athletes on both sides, and a community rallying behind the Rebels, the stage is set for a historic day.

There is still time to secure your tickets and be part of volleyball history. Doors will open at 1pm.

Don’t miss the chance to witness two huge league battles and help the Essex Rebels break a national record.