Hong Kong, China, August 20, 2011 – China celebrated their second victory of 2011 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix in Hong Kong, by claiming a 3-1 (25-16, 19-25, 25-20, 25-21) win over Kazakhstan in front of their home fans crowning to take top spot in Pool I.

Kazakhstan are remain without a win as China picked up their fifth of the tournament so far

2011 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix
August 5-28

The set began with two errors from Kazakhstan while terrific spikes from China forced Kazakhstan to call for a timeout at 5-2. Kazakhstan tried hard to battle back but it was in vain at the first TTO. Taking advantage of the opponent’s repeated errors under the cheering of the spectators, China went further ahead at the second TTO and although Kazakhstan strived to regain their pace, they failed to come back and eventually went down in the set.

China started the second set with several spectacular spikes to take the lead. Kazakhstan refused to give in by demonstrating stronger attacks and intelligent tactical play and they eventually took the lead at 8-6. Having no improvements after the timeout, China called for a break, hoping to regain their momentum. But Kazakhstan increased their attacks and strengthened their form, and eventually widened the gap between the teams to seal the set and bring the scores even.

Frequent errors were made by both teams in the third set as neither managed to gain a foothold in the set. With forceful strikes from Hui Ruoqi and Xu Yunli China scored crucial points, allowing them to take the advantage at the first and second TTO. Both teams struggled to maintain their rhythm but China stumbled to the win, taking a 2-1 lead.

China forced Kazakhstan to call for two timeouts in the first half of the set through several bullet serves from Wang Yimei and assertive spikes from Yang Junjiang. Under the pressure of the spirited Chinese, Kazakhstan had a trouble finding their rhythm and form. With the an improved defensive effort and aggressive spikes Kazakhstan narrowed the set to a two-point deficit at 18-20. But China sustained their position to wrap up the set at 25-21.

China will now take on Poland tomorrow, playing a decisive match which determines the gold medal winner at this leg. Kazakhstan will take on Dominican Republic.