Japan – Australia, Youth
Australia’s unorthodox attacking rhythm provided a chance to disturb their opponents’ defensive agenda. But Japan was quick enough to adjust and unhinge their optimal attacking cadence. Sarina Koga and Shino Nakata provided Japan with ample arsenal from a wide variety of offensive plays.
Australia tried to enhance their offense by employing the left wing to good advantage. Phoebe Bell staged her spikes successfully, which assured the Australians 12 points in the second set. Their effort, however, was neither powerful nor quick enough to completely disrupt Japan from their game.
Coach Christopher Todd fielded in his bench players by set three to experiment with a different combination to spark hope for the Australian side. However, Japan deciphered their rivals’ plans well enough. They fired ferocious serves at the opponents’ court, clearly making out weak spots in the Australians’ defensive position. Japan garnered a total of 13 points from their service attempts.
Sarina Koga emerged as Japan’s lead scorer with 12 points.
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