USA make terrific come back to edge Japan

GOLANIA, Brazil, June 1, 2018 - Benjamin Patch produced a powerhouse performance as the United States pulled off another escape act to eventually see off Japan in a five set thriller 3-2 (23-25 13-25, 25-18, 25-20, 15-10).

The Americans found themselves two sets down in their opening match against Argentina last week and after an astonishing opening to this encounter, Japan were in a similar position and smelling a first win over the side ranked no2 in the world since 1993. 

But thanks to the power of opposite spiker Patch - 14 spikes, one block - and Thomas Jaeschke - seven spikes - that record remains intact as does their unbeaten start in the VNL. 

The United States endured a long journey from China to South America for this latest round of VNL matches aiming to extend a 25 year hold over Japan and keep their unbeaten start to the tournament alive. 

Three wins from three have put the US in a great position and skipper David Smith was looking to lead his country to four triumphs on the spin at a world level tournament for the first time since 2015. 

Japan, with two wins and a defeat, arrived from their first week matches in France knowing with Brazil also on the horizon tomorrow, things aren’t going to get any easier yet with their own captain fantastic Yanagida scoring 31 points last week - Yuji Nishida was the top marksman with an impressive 51 including 45 spikes - they have enough in their locker to trouble any team.