China-Czech Republic
With a 25-22, 25-13, 25-17 victory, the Asians qualify for Friday’s quarterfinal versus Russia.
China’s top scorer was once again outside hitter Ting Zhu with 13 spike winners and 2 block kills while Michaela Mlejnkova was the most efficient player for the Czechs with 11 points.
China took no notice of the huge crowd cheering for the Czech Republic as they matched the strength that the hosts had shown early in the first set. In the deciding phase, the Asians confirmed their supremacy at Women’s U20 World Champs with a calm but resolute finish (25-22). The Czech Republic refused to give up in the second and third set, relying on Mlejnkova‘s powerful spikes to spark a comeback halfway. Nevertheless, with wing spikers Ting Zhu and Fengjiao Wang unstoppable in attacking, China kept momentum and clinched a well-deserved victory.
China coach Jiande Xu: “In the first and third set, the hosts put a lot of pressure on our players. We did not play at our best level. However, we beat them in three, still with a perfect record.”
China outside hitter Ting Zhu: “This was not our best game today. The Czechs played well and encouraging. However, it was a good experience to play in front of such a thrilling home crowd.”
Czech Republic assistant coach Stanislav Mitac: “China got nervous in the beginning of the match. Nevertheless, they are still strong enough to overcome difficult moments. They deserve the quarterfinal qualification.”
Czech Republic captain Lucie Herbockova: “It is too bad that we could not pull through in the first set. Let us get ready for the next round now.”
To read more news from this competition click on Junior World Championship 2013 W.
