Brazil celebrates the victory over the American side
Today’s loss ended the impressive American 18-game sequence of victories on the World Grand Prix.
The match started close, with both attacks having a good performance. An improved defense and fast counterattacks helped USA to take the lead 11-9. Led by the middle-blocker Christa Harmotto, the Americans won the first set 25-17.
USA started the second set still controlling the match thanks to its defense. The away side opened a two-point lead (6-4) and managed it until a great sequence of Brazilian spiker Fernanda Garay on the serve (20-17). Back to the game, Brazil won the set 25-23.
Once again, the Americans had a better start on the third set, jumping ahead 8-6. However, Brazilian defense began to work better, taking the lead 12-9. Opponent’s errors helped the home side to stay ahead and seal the victory on the set 25-18.
Brazil couldn’t stand the pace on fourth set and, by committing many errors, let USA open 11-6 on the score. However, the Brazilians got back to the game after a good sequence of captain Fabiana Claudino on the serve (14-14). The home side took the lead and won the set 25-20 and the match.
American spiker Kimberly Hill was the best scorer of the match, with 16 points. Brazilian spikers Gabriela Guimarães and Fernanda Garay topped the home score, with 14 points.
To read more articles from this competition click on World Grand Prix 2013.
