USA dominated China in a clash of powerhouse teams after seizing a 3-0 victory, 25-21, 25-23, 25-22, in Week 2 of the FIVB Volleyball Nations League, Saturday evening, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Strong was the start of the defending champions as they capitalized on five service aces to cruise to a 25-21 victory in the opening set.
Both teams then figured in a neck-and-neck battle in the second set. China put up a tough challenge but the USA proved to be steadier down the stretch after pulling away with a 25-23 win.
With their backs against the wall, Bin Cai’s squad was eager to put up a fight as they mounted an early 10-6 advantage in the third set. However, the Tokyo Olympic gold medalists eventually found their groove as they rallied back and overcame the deficit.
A strong hit by Kelsey Robinson capped USA’s comeback as they secured the victory on a 25-22 decision.
Kathryn Plummer took charge of the team’s offense with 20 points on 18 attacks and two service aces. Robinson also provided a lift with 15 points on 13 hits to go with a block and a service ace.
“I’m just really proud of our patience, I thought China pushed us really hard and it was just really about being patient and focusing on our side,” said Robinson after delivering clutch kills for her squad in the third set. “Just going point by point and trying to help out my teammates like you can’t win without every single person on the court. We did a great job of staying connected.”
Li Yingying headlined China with 13 markers on 12 kills and a block while Gong Xiangyu followed with 11 points on nine hits and two blocks of her own.
USA (6-1) will take on Thailand (4-3) for its final game on Sunday, June 19, at 3:00 PM. Meanwhile, China (5-2) will go up against Japan (7-0) afterward at 7:00 PM, still at the same venue.
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