What happens if an illegal substitute attempts to enter the set?

When an illegal substitute attempts to enter the set, it results in unnecessary delay because the rules of volleyball strictly govern substitutions. A substitute must enter the match at the designated substitution zone with the appropriate procedures followed, and if this does not happen, the game is interrupted to address the infraction. This interruption can cause a pause in the match, leading to potential delays in the flow of play.

In contrast, simply counting an illegal substitution as valid if it goes unnoticed would undermine the integrity of the game and the importance of adherence to the rules. Continuing play without repercussions disregards the established regulations that govern player substitutions. Similarly, while a technical foul is a penalty-like situation, in this context, it specifically relates to certain infractions that can incur penalties rather than simply addressing the unauthorized entry of a substitute.

Thus, the primary outcome of an illegal substitution is indeed the unnecessary delay caused in the match as officials work to rectify the situation according to the established rules.