US ease to victory over China in women's volleyball
(AP)
Updated: 2005-11-16 00:26

The United States outlasted China in straight sets, handing the title-holders and Olympic champions their second straight loss in the World Grand Champions Cup women's volleyball tournament.

Nancy Metcalf(L) of the US spikes the ball as China's Zhang Ping tries to block her during their match at the World Grand Champions Cup women's volleyball tournement in Tokyo. The US won 25-22, 25-23, 26-24. [AFP]

The US squad, led by Chinese head coach Jenny Lang Ping, sealed their second win by beating the Asian number-one 25-22, 25-23, 26-24 to remain unscathed in the six-nation round-robin that includes the champions of four continents.

Brazil, who rallied from two sets down to beat arch rivals China in their opening match on Tuesday, found Poland easier opposition, winning 3-0 (26-24, 25-18, 25-21) in 84 minutes.

It was the first loss for the European champions, who trounced hosts Japan the night before.

Japan narrowly defeated wild-cards South Korea 3-0 (25-23, 27-25, 25-21) in the final match of the second day in the two-million-dollar event sanctioned by the International Volleyball Federation.

"We knew that the game against China would be difficult," said Lang, the US coach. "Since we did very well in passing and defending, we were able to win this match. I am happy to see the improvements in the team."

The US side kept China on the defensive, led by Nancy Metcalf on the flank and Tayyiba Haneef quick to mop up anything at the net. Chinese hitters found it hard to break the tight US block.