China rout Germany at Grand Prix women's volleyball
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2005-07-01 23:08

Olympic and World Cup double champion China swept Germany 3-0 on Friday for its opening win at the 2005 World Grand Prix women's volleyball tournament Macao leg.

The Chinese players took no sweat grasping the 25-17, 25-19 and 25-15 victory.

Facing the comparatively low-profile Germans, China kicked off with a 2-5 groom in the first set and steadily pulled it back at 10-all.

Germany squeezed back with its tireless defense and quick attack. China, however, commandeered the court with its powerful blocking and spiking skill, surging away at 24-17 before Zhou Suhong sealed the set with a stealing smash.

In the second set, the Chinese women dominated from the beginning to the end. They took a 9-5 lead and held on to make it two sets to nil.

China jumped to a 10-2 lead in the third set and then clinch the victory at 25-15.

Chen Zhonghe, head coach of the Chinese team, told a press conference at the conclusion of the duel that he felt satisfied with the performance of the young Chinese players.

He also hailed the defense effort which the Germans have displayed in the match.

Brazil, earlier on Friday, smashed Poland 25-17, 25-13 and 25-19.

The four teams are vying for the title in the round robin format. China will play Poland on Saturday while Brazil will take on Germany.