Russia outblock Dominican Republic for first win

Nagoya, Japan, November 13, 2013 - European champion Russia notched its first victory with a four-set win (25-14, 22-25, 25-22, 25-15) over the Dominican Republic in their World Grand Champions Cup round-robin match on Wednesday.

Both teams have now win-loss records of 1-1. The Dominicans next play Brazil while Russia play against United States in Tokyo on Friday

Victoria Chaplina recorded a match-high 19 points for Russia. Liubov Shashkova contributed 16 in the win. Iulia Morozova chipped in with 11 tallies. Prisilla Rivera and Bethania De La Cruz led the Dominicans with 12 points apiece. Gina Mambru added 11.

Russia's huge frontline presented problems for the Dominican Republic from the outset of the match. The Russians recorded 21 blocks, including six by Morozova and five by Natalia Dianskaya.

There were very few extended rallies in the contest as both sides relied upon a power game to score.

The Dominican Republic played much better in the second set by displaying good teamwork. The third set belonged to the Dominicans until they fell apart late and allowed Russia to go on a 10-2 run to take it. Russia took charge in the fourth set as the Dominican Republic made several unforced errors.

Russia extended their dominance over Dominican Republic to 10-0 in head-to-head meetings.