Dominicans prove a handful for Thailand
Thailand fell to the Dominican Republic 3-0 (21-25, 22-25, 20-25) in the first game of Pool 11 of the FIVB Nations League at Indoor Stadium, Hua Mark, yesterday.
Earlier, the United Stated dominated Germany 3-0 (25-18, 25-17, 25-17) at the same venue.
The Thai team had hoped to win all three games in front of their home fans after picking up just two wins in the first two weeks.
But they were up against the determined Dominicans whose tenacious defence and ferocious attack proved too much for the home stars.
Brayelin Martinez and Jineiry Martinez both had a great game for the Dominicans while Ajcharaporn Kongyot was the only bright spot for the home side while the likes of Chatchu-on Moksri and captain Pleumjit Thinkaow were below-par.
Thailand play Germany while the US face the Dominican Republic today.
“The Dominicans played very well today. They defended well and our players just made too many errors,” admitted Thailand coach Danai Sriwacharamaytakul. Pleumjit echoed her boss’ sentiment. “As the coach said, we tried a lot of things but they just played so well. Besides, we also made too many mistakes.”
Danai added: “Against Germany tomorrow [today] we just have to make fewer errors. We have to play better than we did today.”
“Hopefully the fans will again come out in full force and give us their support,” Pleumjit said.
Earlier, Michelle Bartsch-Hackley and Jordan Larson showed off their dazzling array of shots to guide the United States to a clinical win over Germany.
Mixing power with clever touches, the two American big hitters dominated in attack, paving the way for the reigning world champions to rack up a fifth successive straight sets win.
Kelly Murphy also played superbly, while Rachael Adams and Carli Lloyd were prominent throughout as the US maintained their place at the top of the competition standings with their sixth win from seven games.
It was Germany’s sixth straight loss in the tournament after they opened with a win over Brazil.
In Pool 12, Japan rallied behind Ai Kurogo’s 16 points to beat Italy 3-2 (20-25, 25-23, 20-25, 25-23, 15-11) in a thrilling match at Hong Kong Coliseum yesterday.
China were due to play Argentina in the second match later last night.
The 2018 FIVB Women’s Nations League, a new annual international tournament contested by 16 teams, has replaced the World Grand Prix.
The top-five teams from the league rounds will join hosts China in the final round in Nanjing.