USA captain Kristin Lynn Hildebrand leads the celebration after victory
Netherlands started the match with more determination, and by the first technical time-out were two points ahead at 8-6, but USA’s Kimberly Hill created so many problems for the Dutch receivers on her serve, that the USA were able to get even and then get ahead.
Netherlands picked up the pace and got back in front at 16-14, but once again the USA tied the set (17-17) so the teams entered the final stage on level terms. In an exciting finish Cassidy Lichtmann’s tricky services were a problem for the Dutch receivers and the USA wrapped it up 25-20.
The second set saw USA take firm control of the match. At the first technical time-out the USA were in front (8-5) and their lead only got bigger. Netherlands struggled to find an answer and the USA doubled their lead and took the second set 25-16 for a 2-0 lead.
With Hill on serve, the USA picked up the first six points of the third set and made a clear statement to the Netherlands that they wanted to wrap up the match in straight sets.
USA coach Karch Kiraly took the opportunity to let some of the reserves play out the final set, and a Regan Hood ace made it 25-12 for a flawless victory.
For more photos from this match, see the gallery below.
For more news from this competition, click on World Grand Prix 2013.
