USA are one victory away from a three-peat

Ningbo, China, June 30, 2012 - The United States beat Cuba in straight sets (25-14, 26-24, 25-14) here Saturday afternoon to gain their fourth consecutive win at the World Grand Prix finals in Ningbo city, eastern China.

Kristin Richards celebrated her 27th birthday by scoring 17 points for the American side that is one win away from sweeping the finals and in a good position to complete a three-peat at the FIVB premier annual women’s competition.

Megan Hodge contributed 17 to the winning cause. Yoana Palacios led the Cuban team with 11 points, but could not stop the USA team cruising to the final victory.

USA captain Danielle Scott-Arruda: “I am happy. Cuba are very strong at serving, which caused us some trouble in receiving. Anyway, this is a win against a great team.”

Cuba Wilma Salas: The USA team is the world No 1. It is very hard to play against them. We are not good at some key points, especially in the second set.