Press release
Taiana Lima and Vivian Cunha stay focused to reach semifinals at Horse Guard’s Parade
Taiana Lima (left) and Vivian Cunha needed to be at their best to beat Natalie Cook and Tamsin Hinchley and advance to the semifinals at Horse Guard's Parade
London, Great Britain, August 13, 2011 – It took all their concentration, but Taiana Lima and Vivian Cunha held on to beat Natalie Cook and Tamsin Hinchley and reach the semifinals of the Visa FIVB Beach Volleyball International, the test event for the London 2012 Olympic Games tournament.
The Brazilians were pushed all the way in three sets by the Australians and needed four match points to win the match 21-17, 13-21, 17-15.
“I’m very happy, it was a great match,” Lima said. “We had great defence, great attacks and great services.
“I’m happy to be staying here in London because the place is wonderful and it is amazing for me. We are on the World Tour and we hope to qualify for the Olympic Games for the first time ever next year.”
Visa FIVB Beach Volleyball International Match Schedule
London, Great Britain | August 9-14
Olympic Test Event: Women
Exclusive interviews on FIVB Youtube Video Channel
Lima and Vivian needed a crucial timeout midway through the third set to regain their composure after Cook and Hinchley had threatened to come back from 6-1 down.
“In the second set we didn’t concentrate very well, but in the third set we got our focus back and concentrated better and got our balance back,” Lima said.
“When it came to our serves I just thought about whether to serve down the line or to serve short and I served down the line, but it went out. But then I got my breath and it was sideout, sideout and then we won the match."
Download highresolution