VTAW finish 10th at Asian Championships
Having steadily improved throughout their matches at the 16th Asian Senior Women's Championships, Australia was felled by a more experienced Kazakhstan outfit yesterday 0:3 (24-26, 14-25, 21-25).
Australia was outgunned across the court as the team was forced to rely on it's outside attackers through much of the match. The team did have their chances though, clawing their way back from an 11-19 deficit in the first set to lead 24-23, but failed to capitalise on their set-point opportunity. Smart play at the net by their opposition claiming two block-points to steal the set 24-26.
Kazakhstan started the better of the two teams in the second set, Australia trailing 3-8 at the first technical timeout. Further Australian errors across all areas stalled any attempt at a comeback, 7-17. Some improved play in long rallies saw the Australian team find their rhythm in sideout, but the margin was too great to overcome, 14-25.
Australia continued to fight through the third set, leading 8-7 at the first technical as they pressured their opposition to error. Kazakhstan retook the lead almost immediately as their variety on attack overcame the desperate defence of Australia 11-17. While Australia narrowed the margin by the end, their opposition were clearly in command on court - defending and transitioning the Australian attack regularly, 21-25.
The Australian team would like to thank the Australian Sports Commission and Volleyball Australia for their ongoing support. Special thanks to all team sponsors and supporters of athletes and staff on tour, without your assistance the team could not have performed to their best. Thanks to Errea and Nfinity - VTAW team-wear and shoes suppliers.
