China's teen titans smash Taiwan for 10th title

The 25-18 25-15 25-9 win against Taiwan, who they had beaten in straight sets in their Pool play-offs earlier, stretched China’s invincibility in the biennial tournament to a 10th title.

World No 1 China, who finished third at the world junior women’s meet in Peru last year, had previously won nine titles, beginning in 1992 in Kuala Lumpur.

Fielding a towering team with an average height of 186cms against Taiwan’s 172cms, China took control of the match, with the 193cms Xu Ruayo and Zhu Ting targeting the smaller opposition blockers with explosive spikes.

 “I’m glad we were able to defend our title. We played well. Taiwan fought hard and were exceptional in their tactics. We still have many things to learn so as to be ready for the world meet in the Czech Republic next year,” said China’s head coach Xu Jiande.

Japan shot down Thai hopes of a podium finish, overcoming them in a five-set thriller 25-22 20-25 23-25 25-18 15-11.

 “I’m happy with the way my team played. We were much better than in the previous two matches. We still have many things to improve, especially our setting and reception. Although we failed to make it to the final, we feel happy that we reached the target – to finish among the top four and win a berth for the world meet,” said Thai head coach Nathapon Srisamutnak.

South Korea, runners-up to China two years ago, claimed fifth spot after thrashing India in straight sets 25-22 25-12 25-19, while Kazakhstan battled past Iran in five exhausting sets 22-25 25-19 19-25 27-25 16-14 for seventh.