Thais rise to 2nd but China test awaits

Thailand's determination to retrieve pride after their humiliating loss to hosts China paid dividends on Sunday, when they thrashed Puerto Rico 25-17 25-16 26-24 to finish second in the four-team China International Women's Volleyball Tournament.

Three-time Olympic champions Cuba are the other team taking part in the two-leg tournament. The first leg concluded on Sunday in Ningbo, while the second will take place in Shenzhen from tomorrow to Friday.

Last year, Thailand stunned hosts China in the FIVB World Grand Prix Finals here in Ningbo to finish an impressive fourth place. More importantly, it was the first time the Thais had beaten the Asian powerhouses on their home soil.

However, Saturday's clash was a different story, despite Thailand fielding a strong line-up of seven players fresh from six months with Igtisachi Baku in Azerbaijan's professional league.

The Chinese methodically tore the Thai defence to pieces with deadly attacks to pull off a comfortable 25-15 25-13 25-9 win.

"Thailand were not at their best, they looked tired after their five-setter against Cuba in their first match on Friday. The Thais are better than us in some aspects and we need to learn from them despite the win," said China's head coach Lang Ping after Saturday's match.

Thailand quickly got their campaign back on track on Sunday with the convincing win over Puerto Rico, while China powered past Cuba 3-1 (25-19 21-25 25-16 25-18).

"I'm happy to be second after the first leg. My players deserve congratulation, they played well in their last match here. Our young players need more matches to improve their skills and gain experience. However, we achieved our goal of a top-two finish here in Ningbo," said Thailand's head coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai.

China stamped their authority on the first leg, claiming nine points from straight three wins. Thailand collected five points from two wins against one loss. Puerto Rico and Cuba finished third and fourth respectively.

Thailand face China in their opening clash at 6.30pm tomorrow in Shenzhen.

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Article source: http://www.thethailandlinks.com/2013/05/21/thais-rise-to-2nd-but-china-test-awaits/